The European Union (EU), on March 13, 2024 passed the first Artificial Intelligence Act in the world. In a world of rapid technological progress, the rise in AI presents both unprecedented challenges and opportunities for nations around the globe. The EU is the first entity to address these issues formally. In Bangladesh, which is undergoing a rapid technological revolution, the rise of AI represents a pivotal moment that has far-reaching consequences. In order to harness the potential for economic growth and societal advancement of AI, it is essential to establish a robust legal structure to govern AI-related matters.
Let’s start by talking about the potential of AI. It is vast and diverse, affecting virtually every aspect of our lives. AI can automate repetitive tasks in a variety of industries, allowing workers to focus more on creative and strategic endeavors. AI can help diagnose diseases, analyse medical images, and personalise treatment plans in healthcare. This will lead to more accurate and efficient healthcare. AI can revolutionise the education sector through personalised learning, adaptive tutoring, and virtual classroom assistants. AI-powered autonomous cars can improve road safety, reduce congestion, and increase transportation efficiency. AI algorithms can be used in the financial sector for fraud detection, portfolio management, risk assessment and customer service. AI can also contribute to environmental conservation by analysing big datasets to monitor, predict, and optimise resource management and develop sustainable solutions. In the entertainment industry, AI-generated music, art, and literature can inspire creative thinking and offer new forms entertainment.
Multiple countries have already approved or are in the process of approving AI regulations. The EU’s AI Act helps them focus on establishing an overall cybersecurity framework, improving security certifications for ICT devices, and strengthening their role as the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity. The EU has also drafted its own Cybersecurity Act. India has passed Digital India Act 2023 which aims at updating and modernising India’s digital governance. It covers cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical AI. Vietnam has also approved a national plan for digital transformation, which aims to promote a digital shift in governance, economy, and society as a whole, as well as establish Vietnamese technology firms as world players. This plan outlines several goals to be met by 2025. They have also developed an AI national strategy by 2030. This strategy outlines several key goals and directions for the development of AI technology in Vietnam. Vietnam is clearly committed to a digital transformation and cannot ignore the important role artificial intelligence will play in this end.
Our aspirations for a Digital Bangladesh also depend on our ability navigate the complexities and nuances of AI responsibly. When discussing the establishment of a regulatory framework in Bangladesh, the core of the discussion is the need to strike a balanced between fostering innovation while safeguarding fundamental human rights. A balanced regulatory structure is important not only to spur innovation and attract investment, but also to protect against the potential risks associated with AI.
AI is not only important because of its potential, but also for other reasons. AI poses a number of risks to the safety of individuals and organisations. It is therefore important to manage it carefully to ensure ethical and responsible use. AI can compromise the privacy of individuals if systems improperly store or use personal data, without consent or adequate safeguards. This can lead identity theft, unauthorised monitoring, and exploitation personal information. We’ve already seen many examples of deepfake video clips where the faces and voices of celebrities are used to spread rumours and damage their reputation. If AI isn’t regulated soon, these incidents could quickly get out of control, and in a country such as Bangladesh, where rumours are more prevalent, they could spread like wildfire. AI systems can also perpetuate discrimination or bias if they are not properly designed and tested, affecting individuals unfairly, in areas such hiring, lending, or legal judgements.
Enacting an AI law will also help Bangladesh to improve its global standing and competitiveness by highlighting the country’s ambition to become a digital hub and powerhouse. By aligning itself with international standards and best practices, the country will be able to foster international collaborations, attract foreign investment and strengthen its position on the global AI scene. Bangladesh will have the opportunity to demonstrate to the world its commitment to ethical AI governance, responsible innovation and responsible technology by developing an AI act. By collaborating with stakeholders from the government, industry and academia, policymakers can leverage different perspectives to develop inclusive AI policies that reflect their country’s values.
Bangladesh’s progress in the digital era will be impacted by Bangladesh’s ability to capitalize on the current trend. A legal framework addressing AI-related issues must also be developed. To improve the country’s credibility and competitiveness in the global AI market, it is important to align with international standards and best practices. Bangladesh can attract foreign investments, foster international collaboration and strengthen its position as an AI leader by demonstrating a dedication to ethical AI governance.
This article is Part I of a two-part series.
Warda Ruheen Bristi
and
Shafin Haque Omlan
are research associates at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM).
Views expressed in this article are the author’s own.
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