Canada Launches Voluntary AI Code Of Conduct
Canada is following the recent trend of launching voluntary guidelines until legislation is enacted.
Canada launched a new voluntary code of conduct for companies developing generative AI. The code includes measures for accountability, safety, fairness and equity, transparency, human oversight and monitoring, and validity and robustness. Signatories also commit to supporting the development of a responsible AI ecosystem in Canada and using AI to drive inclusive and sustainable growth while prioritising human rights, accessibility, and environmental sustainability.
Even though the code is voluntary and has been signed by OpenText, BlackBerry, and TELUS, among others, it has received some sharp criticism from Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke, who argued that Canada needs to focus on encouraging more innovation, not on regulating the sector.
Why is it relevant? Canada is following the recent trend of launching voluntary guidelines until legislation (in Canada’s case, the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA), part of Bill C-27) is enacted.