The Ukrainian government has unveiled a strategic plan for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting its intent to foster closer ties with the European Union (EU) by aligning with forthcoming EU regulations for AI systems. The Ministry of Digital Transformation in Ukraine has outlined its roadmap for AI regulation, which entails an initial phase promoting self-regulation through voluntary codes and subsequently adopting legislation similar to the EU’s AI Act.
Furthermore, this legislation will impose stricter controls on AI applications in proportion to their societal risks. While this move is motivated in part by Ukraine’s aim to harmonize with EU standards, it also seeks to open doors to global markets and deepen integration with the EU. The regulatory framework underscores the country’s ambition to embrace rules and regulations proactively, not only as a pathway to EU integration but also to enhance its national security efforts.
Ukraine already deploys AI technology in its ongoing conflict with the Russian military, utilizing AI for tasks like target identification through satellite imagery and intelligence gathering from open sources. This proactive stance is emblematic of the global trend among governments racing to understand and regulate AI, emphasizing the need for responsible development and deployment. These efforts were reinforced at the G20 Summit in September, where world leaders committed to focusing on the responsible advancement of AI.
Ukraine’s bid for fast-tracked accession into the European Union, a request made shortly after Russia’s aggressive actions in early 2022, was granted candidate status by the European Council in June 2022. The formal ascension process could commence as soon as December.
By aligning with EU AI regulations, Ukraine is not only fostering innovation but also setting a regulatory framework that balances technological advancement with responsibility, as the nation navigates its strategic goals and security concerns.
