12 Main AI and Digital Policy Instruments in 2023

The survey of 12 main AI Policy Instruments is part of Diplo’s HumAInism policy research and monitoring on AI developments. ‘Four Sessions AI’ can also be found in 2023 Recap.


  • 11 April 2023 - China’s Regulation of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Draft for Comments)

    China has issued a draft regulation for generative artificial intelligence, aiming to promote its healthy development and standardized application by 2023. The regulation outlines guidelines for content generated by AI to adhere to socialist values, prevent discrimination, respect intellectual property, ensure accuracy, and protect personal information. Providers must submit security assessments, ensure data legitimacy, protect user information, and handle complaints. Violations can lead to service suspension, fines, or criminal prosecution. The regulation emphasizes transparency, user education, and responsible use of AI-generated content.

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    24 May 2023 - A Global Digital Compact – an Open, Free and Secure Digital Future for All (Our Common Agenda Policy Brief 5) 

    The text discusses the Global Digital Compact, emphasizing the urgent need for multistakeholder cooperation to address issues like the digital divide, sustainable development, online safety, and AI governance. It highlights the importance of international collaboration for a better future, building on recommendations from the Secretary-General's report "Our Common Agenda." The upcoming Summit of the Future in 2024 presents an opportunity to strengthen global governance. The policy brief outlines objectives and actions to safeguard and advance a secure digital future for all, rooted in international principles.

  • 17 July 2023 - Convention on AI and human rights (draft July 2023)

    A draft of the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law was prepared in July 2023. It highlights the importance of AI in promoting human welfare and gender equality while emphasizing the need to prevent its misuse for repressive purposes. The draft aims to establish a global legal framework to ensure responsible innovation, transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights in the design, development, use, and decommissioning of AI systems. The document also underlines the interconnectedness of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

  • 22 July 2023 - Voluntary commitments from leading artificial intelligence companies to manage the risks posed by AI

    Leading artificial intelligence companies are committing to prioritize safety, security, and trust in AI development. These voluntary commitments emphasize the need for rigorous testing, cybersecurity measures, transparency, and efforts to prevent bias and discrimination. Companies are also encouraged to share information on risks, invest in cybersecurity, and promote responsible innovation. The Biden-Harris Administration aims to work on new regulations and international standards to ensure ethical AI use. These commitments are a crucial initial step towards ensuring AI's benefits are realized while managing associated risks effectively.

  • 19 August 2023 - Outcome Document & Chair Summary of G20 Digital Economy Ministers Meeting 2023

    The G20 Digital Economy Ministers Meeting in 2023 took place in Bengaluru, where ministers discussed digital innovation, inclusion, skilling, and security. Key topics included promoting a secure, inclusive digital economy, bridging digital divides, ensuring quality digital connectivity, and emphasizing the importance of digital skilling for economic growth. The Outcome Document covers various initiatives such as Digital Public Infrastructure, enhancing safety and security, and promoting digital skilling. It also addresses geopolitical issues like the situation in Ukraine. The meeting concluded with a commitment to advancing an inclusive, fair, and secure digital economy while respecting legal frameworks and human rights.

  • Cover of the G77 Havana Declaration

    15 September 2023 - G77 Havana Declaration on current development challenges: The role of science, technology, and innovation

    Heads of State and Government from G77 and China gathered in Havana to address pressing development issues. Emphasis on strengthening unity, tackling economic disparities, enhancing global cooperation, and leveraging science and technology for sustainable progress. Calls for equitable access to technological advancements, rejecting coercive measures, and prioritizing human rights and health. Commitment to advancing sustainable development, digital inclusion, and international collaboration in science and innovation. Highlight the urgency to bridge North-South disparities, promote South-South cooperation, and support the development of developing countries through various means, including innovation policies and partnerships. Recognition of the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in addressing global challenges.

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    30 October 2023 - U.S. President’s Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence

    The President issued an Executive Order focusing on the responsible development and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address its potential for both good and harm. The order emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, private industry, academia, and civil society, to mitigate risks and maximize benefits. The government aims to lead in governing AI to ensure national security, economic prosperity, and societal well-being. The order lays out guiding principles and priorities for AI development and use, stressing the importance of upholding these values in collaboration with diverse stakeholders for justice, security, and opportunity.

  • 1 November 2023 - The Bletchley Declaration on AI Safety

    The Bletchley Declaration on AI Safety was introduced at the Safety Summit, establishing global cooperation to ensure safe, human-centric, and responsible AI development. Acknowledging the opportunities AI offers, the declaration emphasizes addressing safety risks, especially concerning frontier AI models. It calls for international collaboration, inclusive governance, and transparency in AI development to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The focus includes identifying shared safety risks, building evidence-based policies, and supporting scientific research on AI safety. The declaration aims to promote responsible AI use for the benefit of all and aligns with broader national and international governance initiatives.

  • 28 November 2023 - US-UK Guidelines for secure AI system development

    The message outlines guidelines for secure AI system development provided by the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the UK National Cyber Security Centre. The guidelines emphasize the importance of secure design, development, deployment, and operation of AI systems to ensure functionality, availability, and protection of sensitive data. Stakeholders are encouraged to follow these guidelines to make informed decisions throughout the AI system lifecycle, focusing on security outcomes for customers, transparency, accountability, and prioritizing secure by design principles.

  • 8 December 2023 - EU AI Act | Survey of amendments (structured view)

    An overview of negotiation points for the EU AI Act is provided during the trialogue. It outlines key areas for discussion between the European Parliament, Council, and Commission.

  • 13 December 2023 - GPAI Ministerial Declaration 2023

    Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence Ministerial Declaration 2023 reaffirms commitments to responsible, trustworthy stewardship of AI, rooted in democratic values and human rights. Acknowledges progress under Japan's leadership, aims to address challenges such as misinformation, unemployment, and data protection. Embraces equitable access to resources and sustainable agriculture innovation. Supports collaborative efforts, knowledge sharing, and inclusive engagement. Highlights the importance of global cooperation in AI governance and emphasizes the need for diverse membership to address global challenges.

  • 20 December 2023 - UN Secretary-General’s AI Advisory Body Interim Report: Governing AI for Humanity

    The message discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on society, highlighting its potential for good while also acknowledging risks such as biases and surveillance. It emphasizes the need for governance to ensure equitable distribution of benefits and to address challenges effectively. A case study illustrates how AI can be utilized to tackle climate change through data analysis and informed decision-making. This underscores the importance of harnessing AI's potential while working towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals.