Progression of Influence: Africa's Impact on Crafting the EU Artificial Intelligence Agreement
The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step towards establishing a global ethical AI standard with the drafting of the EU AI Treaty. The treaty, aimed at ensuring AI is ethical and trustworthy, outlines global standards for responsible AI development and deployment. However, a notable absence in the creation of this treaty is the perspective of African nations.
Currently, only Mauritius and Egypt have formulated AI laws, while South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya have initiated plans to create regulatory frameworks. This lack of development in Africa may explain the absence of an African perspective in the creation of the EU AI Treaty.
Much of the current AI development relies on foreign technology and data stored outside the continent. This dependency could be exacerbated by the exclusion of Africa in the development of the treaty. The treaty requires signatories to ensure responsibility and accountability for the impacts AI has on human rights, a responsibility that African states are eager to embrace.
The African Institute for Data Science (AIDS) is promoting responsible data practices and has programs to help African states build capacity for AI. African nations have the potential to collaborate and establish a regional framework for AI regulations, which could provide a unified voice in AI discourse and tailor regulation to local needs.
Regional economic blocs such as the East African Community (EAC) or the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) could consider developing regional frameworks. Nigeria and Kenya are in the process of developing their own AI policies, and their participation in regional discussions could accelerate the development of a unified African AI regulatory framework.
The African Union (AU) has ratified the Malabo Convention to guide AI policy on the continent, but it is not sufficient. Mauritius, however, has made strides in this area with a national AI policy that places human beings at its core, emphasizing fairness, transparency, and accountability.
The use of biased data in AI algorithms could disproportionately affect African populations and other minority groups, potentially leading to unfair outcomes. Inclusive discussions and the development of local AI regulations are crucial to mitigate these risks.
As the EU AI Treaty moves towards ratification on September 5, 2024, it is essential that African states are included in these discussions. A unified African voice in the global AI discourse could not only ensure local perspectives are considered but also attract companies involved in AI development to establish a presence on the continent.
Read also:
- Hematology specialist and anemia treatment: The role of a hematologist in managing anemia conditions
- Hackers Utilize GOLD SALEM to Infiltrate Networks and Evade Security Measures, Deploying Warlock Ransomware
- Southeast Asia's initial AI-linked battery-swapping station was launched by U Power
- Artificial Intelligence with independent agency could potentially intervene in cybercrises.
