Dutch authorities team up with UNESCO on ethical AI
The Dutch Authority for Digital Infrastructure (NCCA) and UNESCO are shaping the future of AI in Europe with their collaborative project, 'Supervising AI by Competent Authorities.' Focused on establishing a comprehensive ethical framework for AI oversight, this initiative addresses the challenges of rapid AI growth. As Amsterdam takes the lead in AI innovation, this project ensures ethical considerations are at the forefront of AI development across European countries.
Ensuring Europe is well equipped for the future of AI
Regulatory frameworks designed to govern safety and ethical standards are struggling to keep up with the rapid growth of AI technology. The aim of ‘Supervising AI by Competent Authorities’ is to establish a framework with academic institutions, government bodies, and industry experts. The initiative aims to create a blueprint that not only the Netherlands, but also other European countries can put into action. Ensuring that all AI technologies are created and implemented with ethical and moral considerations.
Why building a framework is fundamental
In 2021, the UN agency released a resource guide that includes materials about artificial intelligence ethics, policies and strategies on a national, regional and international level. While non-binding, the guide is embraced by all 193 UN member states. All who recognise that while AI-driven solutions can propel breakthroughs in various sectors including medicine and sustainability, AI poses potential harm, such as AI incorporating biases.
This is why ‘Supervising AI by Competent Authorities’ has come at a fundamental time. The project which is also backed by the European Commission – will gather data and compile a comprehensive report on how countries across Europe are overseeing artificial intelligence. Alongside this, the project will develop a set of case studies relating to AI, deliver recommendations for optimal practices and extend training and support to governing bodies around Europe.
Amsterdam front and centre of AI innovation
The city of Amsterdam has become a focal point for AI innovation, hosting numerous startups, research institutions, and multinational companies. The city leads responsible AI development in Europe through examples like Amsterdam AI, a coalition focused on people-centric, just, and trustworthy AI applications.
‘Supervising AI by Competent Authorities’ will be a vital resource when moving forward in AI across all industries in all countries, with the NCCA standing in leadership. A safeguard to ensure that societies across Europe are getting the very best out of AI technologies. As Gabriela Ramos, Assistant-Director General for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO explains, “This is not a technological discussion. It is a societal one. We are talking about the kind of world we want to live in. To shape the technological development of AI, we need effective governance frameworks underpinned by the ethical and moral values we all hold dear.”
