Global AI and Facial Recognition Regulation

Global Regulation of AI and Facial Recognition: Challenges and Solutions

The regulation of facial recognition technology and artificial intelligence (AI) remains a fragmented global challenge, despite growing awareness and international efforts. Organizations like the United Nations (UN), OECD, and WEF have provided guiding principles, but enforceable standards are lacking. On July 27, 2025, UN tech leader Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the urgent need for a unified global AI strategy to prevent fragmented regulations from exacerbating inequalities.

Facial recognition technology poses significant governance challenges due to its rapid advancement, complexity, and ethical implications. Regulatory delays are attributed not only to the swift pace of technological innovation but also to the exclusion of diverse perspectives in discussions. Early warnings from civil society about privacy and human rights were initially overlooked until governments and major tech companies began to echo these concerns.

The Need for Adaptive and Inclusive Governance

To address these challenges, an adaptive and inclusive governance model is proposed. This model balances flexibility with democratic legitimacy, featuring decentralized decision-making, iterative policy learning, and responsiveness to evolving risks associated with AI applications like facial recognition. Inclusivity is crucial for ensuring the legitimacy of governance frameworks, as it incorporates a broader range of stakeholders.

Policy Recommendations for Effective AI Governance

The policy brief offers three key recommendations for national regulators, multilateral organizations, and regional policymakers: (1) mandate transparent labeling of AI systems, (2) reframe AI as a societal concern rather than just a security tool, and (3) integrate civil society into AI governance forums. These measures aim to create a proactive, equitable, and context-aware framework for global AI regulation.

The upcoming AI Impact Summit in February 2026 in Delhi provides a timely opportunity for global policymakers to develop an international vision for AI governance that includes facial recognition technology. By adopting these recommendations, policymakers can better align regulatory efforts with public concerns and technological advancements.