The Nordic Ethical AI Expert Group, established in September 2023 by Nordic Innovation, aims to position the Nordic region as a leader in ethical artificial intelligence (AI) and responsible data use by 2030. This initiative aligns with Vision2030, a commitment by the Nordic Prime Ministers to make the Nordics the most sustainable and integrated region globally by 2030. This document outlines five key policy recommendations to achieve this goal.
Joint Nordic Strategy for Ethical and Responsible AI
A unified Nordic strategy is crucial to harness regional synergy and collaboration. While each Nordic country has its own national AI strategy, a cohesive approach can amplify their collective potential. A joint strategy will pool resources, expertise, and innovation capabilities, creating robust, ethically sound AI solutions reflective of shared values and societal contexts. Regulatory sandboxes, allowing controlled testing of new AI innovations, are also recommended to align with the EU AI Act’s requirements.
Nordic Centre for Ethical and Responsible AI
The establishment of a Nordic Centre for Ethical and Responsible AI aims to address the lack of coordinated efforts among Nordic stakeholders. Initially, this centre will operate as a virtual organization, collaborating with existing key actors in the Nordic AI ecosystem. The centre will focus on securing compute and data resources necessary for cutting-edge ethical AI applications and defining governance structures. Funding from both public and private sectors is essential, and the centre will coordinate initiatives currently undertaken independently by Nordic countries to optimize resource allocation and achieve scale.
Foundation Models for Nordic Languages
To maintain digital sovereignty and protect democratic values, the development of large language models (LLMs) for Nordic languages is imperative. These models should reflect the unique linguistic and cultural diversity of the Nordics. Coordinated efforts in this area will ensure that AI technologies align with regional needs and values, promoting digital sovereignty.
Skilled Workforce and Competent Society
Integrating human rights, ethics, and sustainability into education and workforce development is crucial. This approach will prepare society for the ethical use of AI, ensuring that the benefits of AI technologies are maximized while mitigating potential risks. Educational institutions should incorporate ethics into AI-related curricula, fostering a workforce that is competent in ethical and responsible AI practices.
Transparency in AI Sustainability
Developing a standardized framework to assess and report the environmental impact of AI technologies is essential for reinforcing the Nordics’ commitment to sustainable development. This framework will provide transparency around the sustainability of AI technologies, ensuring that their deployment contributes positively to environmental goals.
Immediate Steps for Implementation
To initiate these recommendations, the following immediate steps are proposed:
- Form a multidisciplinary expert committee to draft the joint Nordic strategy.
- Secure funding and establish operational frameworks for the Nordic Centre for Ethical and Responsible AI.
- Initiate dialogues and set up structures for coordinating the development of foundation models for Nordic languages.
- Engage with universities and other educational institutions to integrate ethics into AI-related curricula.
- Convene stakeholders to develop the AI sustainability assessment framework.
The Nordic Ethical AI Expert Group’s recommendations aim to integrate ethical AI principles into business operations, education systems, and governmental policies. This holistic approach seeks to mitigate AI-related risks while leveraging AI’s potential to drive sustainable development. As the Nordic countries implement these guiding principles, their concerted efforts are poised to serve as a global model of responsible AI governance. For coordination and inquiries, stakeholders are encouraged to contact Nordic Innovation representatives.
These policy recommendations represent a collective effort to ensure that the Nordic region remains at the forefront of ethical AI and responsible data use, aligning with the broader vision of sustainable and innovative growth across the Nordic countries.
These recommendations are based on the collective insights of the Nordic Ethical AI Expert Group, which consists of 23 members from various sectors, including industry, academia, and civil society. The group’s work reflects a strong commitment to enhancing Nordic cooperation and advancing the ethical AI ecosystem.
Source: https://norden.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1863330/FULLTEXT01.pdf