AI Regulation: Ibero-American Digital Parliamentarians Forum
Source: directoriolegislativo.org
Noel Alonso Murray, the Executive Director of Directorio Legislativo, participated in the Ibero-American Forum of Digital Parliamentarians in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. This forum, led by CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, together with ParlAmericas and the Government Office of Information and Communication Technologies, took place from October 1st to 2nd.
The event convened legislators, experts, and authorities from across the region. Its primary goals included strengthening interparliamentary cooperation regarding the challenges of digital transformation, fostering dialogue on opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and other new technologies, and promoting the creation of inclusive and sustainable regulatory frameworks. These frameworks aim to protect rights and reduce disparities in development.
Alonso Murray's Role
Alonso Murray served as a speaker during the session entitled “Regulating AI and New Technologies: Alternatives to (Re)think Regulatory Frameworks.” She shared insights into the current state of regulatory discussions in Latin America, as well as lessons derived from various experiences.
During her presentation, Alonso Murray emphasized that artificial intelligence is evolving more rapidly than the regulatory capabilities of states. She also noted the crucial role of parliaments in ensuring laws are developed through participation, with appropriate timelines, and with input from diverse sectors.
She further underscored the significance of regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding rights. To illustrate this point, she contrasted the case of Peru, which has enacted a law swiftly but lacks effective regulation, with that of Chile, which is pursuing a more extended process characterized by broad consultation and greater legitimacy.
Challenges and Commitment
According to Alonso Murray, the primary challenge for the region involves strengthening legislative institutions. This would allow them to anticipate technological advancements and guarantee transparency, citizen involvement, and accountability.
Directorio Legislativo reaffirms its dedication to providing evidence and sharing experiences to enrich discussions about artificial intelligence and parliaments. The organization believes that robust and transparent institutions form the bedrock for societies that are more innovative, democratic, and equitable.