HAP and G7: AI Regulation Efforts

The G7 Summit in Hiroshima in May 2023 initiated the Hiroshima AI Process (HAP) as part of the G7 Hiroshima Leaders’ Communiqué. The HAP aims to foster international discussions on inclusive AI governance and interoperability to achieve trustworthy AI. It recognises the growing prominence of Generative AI (GAI) and emphasises addressing opportunities and challenges related to it.

The Collaboration of HAP with International Organisations

The HAP will cooperate with international organisations such as the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI). The GPAI, launched in June 2020 with fifteen members, is a multi-stakeholder initiative focusing on AI. 

It seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice on AI by supporting cutting-edge research and applied activities. India currently holds the GPAI presidency for 2022-23, following its Presidency of the G20, an organisation comprising the world’s largest economies.

The Significance of G7 and HAP

The G7, an intergovernmental organisation formed in 1975, comprises the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the US, with India also being a part of the G20. The G7 meets annually to discuss various issues of common interest, including global economic governance, international security, and energy policy. The HAP was launched within the G7 framework to address AI regulation and governance.

Contributions and Challenges of HAP

One of the significant contributions of the HAP could be establishing clear rules and principles regarding AI and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). This includes addressing the application of “Fair Use” doctrine in machine learning datasets and clarifying the permissible use of copyrighted materials for AI-related purposes. 

The HAP aims to find a balanced approach to AI governance by considering diverse perspectives and maintaining harmony among G7 countries. However, challenges exist due to differing regulatory approaches among these countries, which may hinder a complete consensus.

Global Rules and Initiatives on AI

Various countries and regions have taken steps to regulate AI. The US released a Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, outlining principles to mitigate the harms of AI on economic and civil rights. NITI Aayog in India has issued guiding documents on AI, including the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and the Responsible AI for All report. China and the European Parliament have also introduced regulations targeting specific types of algorithms and AI systems.

Conclusion

The HAP initiated by the G7 Summit in Hiroshima signifies the importance of international collaboration in addressing AI governance and regulation. By involving multiple stakeholders and organisations, it aims to achieve a common vision of trustworthy AI while navigating challenges presented by divergent regulatory approaches.