Advocates push for the implementation of principles governing the use of AI technology
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) have signed a "smart parliament" cooperative agreement, advocating for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the legislature. This move comes as a response to the growing potential of AI to improve the efficiency, transparency, and public communication of legislatures.
Chen Nah-chia, director of the WFD's Taiwan office, emphasised the importance of ensuring that technology does not threaten democracy. He highlighted the need to navigate the technological pitfalls of AI, including risks to privacy and government secrets, as outlined in the guidelines published by the WFD.
At a news conference held prerecorded by TFD president Liao Da-chi, Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Su Chiao-hui suggested that AI could improve the quality of law-writing and attribution of responsibility in the legislature. She proposed that AI could be used as a research tool, not as a solution provider.
The Legislative Speaker, Han Kuo-yu, was present at the signing of the agreement. The AI guidelines provide case studies that could help the Legislative Yuan make effective use of AI in various fields. The guidelines could serve a similar purpose as the proposed basic law governing AI, according to Chinese Nationalist Party Legislator Ko Ju-chun.
The European Parliament, Canadian, Brazilian, Dutch, and Estonian legislatures are examples of legislative bodies that have successfully implemented AI. The collaboration between TFD and WFD focuses on overcoming complex international and multidisciplinary challenges arising from the intersection of democracy and AI.
Failure to develop necessary AI policies could widen the gap between emerging technology and government regulation, as pointed out by guideline coauthor Franklin de Vrieze. The TFD president, Liao Da-chi, suggests that AI, a technology widely used by people, should be adopted by the Legislative Yuan to facilitate communication and protect government information security.
Lawmakers were encouraged to consider AI's potential for improving legislature efficiency, transparency, and public communication, as emphasised by Ko. The Legislative Yuan should adopt the AI guidelines to ensure that technology does not pose a threat to democracy, while making the most of its benefits.
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