BRICS calls for open source for technology in a statement on AI
On Sunday evening (Jul. 6), BRICS issued a joint statement advocating the development of open-source Artificial Intelligence (AI), with global sharing of technology and knowledge.
In the first of three specific documents scheduled for the Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the group signed a set of guidelines focused on equitable access to technology. Two other statements—on climate finance and health—are also scheduled for Monday (7).
These guidelines will shape the group’s common stance in international forums, especially in talks with the richest countries that currently lead AI development.
“We highlight the role of international cooperation in facilitating access to AI-based technologies and critical components, removing barriers to financial resources needed for AI research and innovation, and developing the knowledge, skills, and risk management structures necessary to effectively leverage AI technologies, especially in low- and middle-income countries,” states an excerpt from the document.
Another key concern is intellectual property, particularly copyright, amid widespread criticism of unauthorized use of content generated by the technology.
“We need a balance between property rights, transparency, and accountability to safeguard the public interest, promote international technology transfer, and ensure compliance with national laws and applicable international law,” the document reads.
UN governance
In line with the tone adopted on other summit topics, BRICS believes that multilateralism should guide countries’ use of AI. The group advocates efforts to establish global governance centered on the United Nations (UN).
The understanding is that this centralization will mitigate risks and ensure more inclusive access to technology. According to the group, it would also facilitate policy exchange and dialogue on AI, while stimulating innovation and economic growth.
Another guideline presented by the group concerns AI regulation mechanisms. BRICS argues that the “digital economy requires safeguarding the rights and obligations of countries, companies, and users under national laws, regulations, and applicable international agreements.”
Environmental and social impacts
Specific sections of the document address concerns about the environmental and social impacts of artificial intelligence, including its effects on the labor market. The group recognizes AI’s potential to boost productivity, innovation, and create new job opportunities but also highlights the “challenges, concerns, and risks regarding working conditions, work intensity, job displacement, and threats to employment and the dignity of workers.”
The issue of negative algorithmic errors and biases, which lead to discrimination and the exclusion of certain social groups, is also on the agenda.
“Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and vulnerable groups such as children, young people, and the elderly tend to be the most affected by AI systems trained on biased data. Interdisciplinary collaboration among people from diverse backgrounds is essential to establish standards and improve the explainability of the models’ operations and results,” states another excerpt from the statement.
According to the document, the ethical use of AI also involves combating information manipulation and the production and spread of false content.
“The generation of realistic-looking fake text, images, audio, and video content poses significant threats to the integrity and authenticity of information and can lead to manipulation of public opinion, incitement of social unrest, and weakening of trust in public institutions,” the statement says.
To address the problem, the group suggests a “greater focus on media literacy strategies and local communication efforts,” which would enable the development of tools to quickly flag misinformation, promote digital literacy, and foster critical thinking skills among individuals.
