Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has unveiled a new international framework aimed at regulating and promoting the responsible use of generative AI technology. The announcement was made during his speech at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris. Highlighting the significant potential of generative AI to enrich global societies, Kishida also cautioned against its darker implications, such as the risk of spreading disinformation. This balanced approach underscores the need for careful management of the technology as it continues to evolve rapidly.
Under Kishida’s leadership, Japan initiated the Hiroshima AI process last year while chairing the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations. This initiative was designed to establish international guiding principles and a code of conduct for AI developers. The framework, named the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, aims to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used in ways that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. As of Kishida’s latest announcement, 49 countries and regions have signed up to participate in this voluntary framework.
The Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group represents a significant global effort to tackle the challenges posed by generative AI. Participating countries and regions will collaborate on implementing the agreed-upon principles and codes of conduct to mitigate the risks associated with AI technologies. This includes addressing ethical concerns and preventing misuse that could harm societies. The framework is intended to foster international cooperation to ensure that the benefits of AI are accessible worldwide, promoting a collective advancement in AI safety and reliability.
This move by Japan adds to the ongoing global efforts to regulate AI technologies, joining other nations and international bodies that have recognized the need for oversight. The European Union, the United States, China, and many others have been actively working to establish their own regulations and guidelines. Meanwhile, organizations like the United Nations are also exploring ways to supervise the use and development of AI globally, highlighting the widespread recognition of both the potential and the perils of rapid technological advancements in AI.
