World AI Conference: US and China Agree Humanity Comes First

At this year’s World AI Conference, China unveiled the Shanghai Declaration on Global AI Governance, outlining official guidelines that urge nations to collaborate in ensuring that the primary focus of global AI development is the benefit of humanity.

In his 1942 short story “Runaround,” science fiction writer Isaac Asimov introduced the ‘Three Laws of Robotics.’ Paraphrased, the laws are as follows: First Law: A robot may not harm a human or, through inaction, allow a human to be harmed. Second Law: A robot must obey human orders unless these orders conflict with the First Law. Third Law: A robot must protect its own existence as long as this protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.

In fact, critics often dismiss Asimov’s ‘Laws‘ as fictional enhancements unsuitable for real-world scenarios. Yet, at the 2024 World AI Conference in Shanghai, China introduced the Shanghai Declaration on Global AI Governance, the first official guidelines of their kind. China called for global cooperation in adopting these guidelines.

“We anticipate positive responses from governments, the scientific community, industry, and all stakeholders to collaborate on advancing AI for humanity’s benefit,” stated Chen Jining, Shanghai’s CCP Committee Secretary, during the WAIC opening ceremony.

Global Alignment on AI Governance

In fact, the Declaration aligns perfectly with this year’s conference theme, “Governing AI for Good and for All,” and follows the United Nations General Assembly’s recent adoption of a China-led resolution aimed at helping poorer nations benefit from AI. The resolution was co-sponsored by over 140 countries, including the US.

“This document demonstrates global unity and cooperation, reflecting countries’ resolve to promote inclusive AI development,” remarked Dai Bing, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, during a special briefing at the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance at the conference. “It marks a milestone in global AI governance, particularly in capacity building, with profound implications for shaping the world’s future.”

An English version of the Declaration is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China’s website, but it’s too lengthy to include here in full. Here are the key highlights:

Promoting AI Development

“We commit to actively advancing research and development to harness AI’s potential in diverse fields such as healthcare, education, transportation, agriculture, industry, culture, and ecology.”

“We will monitor and mitigate AI’s impact on employment, and encourage improvements in the quality and efficiency of AI-augmented human work.”

“We advocate for openness and shared benefits, fostering exchanges and cooperation on global AI research resources.”

“We pledge to ensure high-quality data development with robust data security, promote the lawful and orderly flow of data, and oppose discriminatory and exclusive data training.”

“We urge all countries to maintain a people-centered approach, adhere to the principle of AI for good, and guarantee equal rights, opportunities, and rules for all nations in developing and utilizing AI technologies without any form of discrimination.”

Ensuring AI Safety

“We prioritize AI safety, particularly data security and privacy protection. We commit to safeguarding personal information and ensuring its lawful use.”

“We acknowledge the need to enhance regulation and develop reliable AI technologies that can be reviewed, monitored, and traced. Given AI’s evolving nature, we will leverage AI technologies to mitigate risks and boost our technological capacity for AI governance, underpinned by human oversight and decision-making.”

“We aim to strengthen AI-related cybersecurity, improve the security and reliability of systems and applications, and prevent hacking and malware attacks.”

“We support the development and adoption of ethical guidelines and norms for AI, based on broad international consensus, to guide the healthy advancement of AI technologies and prevent their misuse, abuse, or malicious application.”

Developing the AI Governance System

“We urge international organizations, enterprises, research institutes, social organizations, and individuals to actively contribute to the development and implementation of the AI governance system.”

“We commit to enhancing regulatory and accountability mechanisms for AI to ensure adherence and responsibility in the utilization of AI technologies.”

However, The Declaration’s final paragraphs emphasize the importance of involving the public in AI decision-making, enhancing digital literacy, and leveraging AI to enhance societal well-being and address global challenges.

This human-centric approach echoes themes reminiscent of Asimov’s work. Yet, the question remains: will these guidelines foster international collaboration and protect the public?

To conclude, China has demonstrated leadership in AI governance with pioneering regulations that have prompted attention from US lawmakers. This track record suggests China’s competence in this field. However, only time will reveal the true impact of these efforts, particularly in the dynamic realm of AI.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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