Dear readers,
Welcome to another issue of the Digital Watch weekly!
AI, content policy, and cybersecurity issues are again the most prevalent. We’re seeing more countries – now including Chile and South Africa – shape AI governance nationally and an unusual collaboration between China and France on the same topic. We’re also seeing platforms grapple with AI-generated content and content removal rules. China and the USA are still boxing it out over TikTok and chips – you can read more in-depth about that in our May Monthly newsletter – and cybersecurity (remember, the USA is accusing China of cyberespionage via Volt Typhoon). The newest development in the geopolitical matches could very well be the US bill that would make implementing AI model export rules easier.
An exciting update this week has been the launch of the United States International Cyberspace & Digital Policy Strategy, a document that puts digital solidarity, which isn’t a term often seen in policy documents, at the heart of the country’s tech policy.
Speaking of terminology, our reading corner includes a blog on reducing terminological confusion: Is it digital or internet governance? (hint: it’s both) as well as our monthly review of digital policy developments.
ICYMI, our AI Shorts #5 explainer on what artificial general intelligence (AGI) is and Byte-sized Insight #20 on how the ‘mandate from heaven’ could influence the new digital social contract. Intrigued? Watch them!
If you’re a cybersecurity professional or enthusiast, you might be interested in today’s Open-ended Working Group on security of and in the use of ICTs 2021-2025 (OEWG) Global roundtable on ICT security capacity-building. If you must miss the UN Web TV stream, we’ve got you covered: reports – and transcripts – from the event will be available on the Digital Watch Observatory.
Andrijana and the Digital Watch team
Chile leads in global AI governance, unveiling updated national policy and groundbreaking legislation at a significant event attended by UNESCO Director-General and Chilean Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation.
South Africa is set to establish an AI Expert Advisory Council to address regulatory challenges amidst broader discussions on the ethical considerations and economic benefits of AI adoption.
The two countries recognised the key role of AI in development and innovation, while also acknowledging the potential challenges that may arise from its use.
The measure would streamline regulations, particularly regarding open-source AI, and grant the Commerce Department enhanced oversight over AI systems if approved.
The breach occurred multiple times, and the MoD is currently investigating the extent of the hack.
Concerns about the security of US data and critical infrastructure were raised, a top official revealed.
The US is set to significantly increase semiconductor production by 2032, leading to a wider gap with China in chip manufacturing capabilities
TikTok contends that Congress has singled out and banned the platform without evidence of Chinese government misuse. The app claims a ban would be impractical and isolate US users, undermining its business.
The decision comes amid concerns about the potential use of AI-generated content to spread misinformation during the US elections.
The clash between X and the Australian cyber regulator has sparked intense debate over global content moderation and national sovereignty, raising crucial questions about the future of online free speech.
The US Department of State introduced a new strategy to promote digital solidarity and shape international technology governance. The strategy aims to support allies, especially emerging economies, in seizing opportunities presented by new technologies and pursuing economic and development goals.
#ICYMI |
What is artificial general intelligence? And why is Elon Musk suing OpenAI over it? Watch to find out!
Delve into the timeless wisdom of ancient Chinese thinkers as we explore their relevance to today’s digital age and learn how the ‘mandate from heaven’ parallels Western theories like Hobbes’ Leviathan and Rousseau’s social contract.
Reading corner |
The blog discusses the importance of distinguishing between digital and internet governance. It emphasises the need for precision in terminology to accurately describe online activities and the governance required. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they highlight the specificities of each term and the implications of their usage in discussions around governance. The text advocates for a clear understanding of the nuances between digital and internet governance to enhance communication and decision-making in this realm.
In our May issue of the Digital Watch Monthly, we analyse how China and the USA are boxing it out over tech, look at strategies for balancing AI advancements and IP protection, reflect upon the dominance of digital technologies and AI in 2024 elections worldwide, and examine the significance of the NetMundial+10 Multistakeholder Statement as a blueprint for inclusive digital governance.