In statement on AI, Brics defends open source for technology

On Sunday night (6), BRICS issued a joint statement defending the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in open source, with global sharing of technologies and knowledge.

In the first of three specific documents scheduled for the Leaders' Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the group signed a set of guidelines based on equitable access to technology. Two other declarations on climate finance and health are also scheduled for Monday (7).

These guidelines will guide the group's common approaches in international forums, especially in discussions with the richest countries, which currently dominate AI development.

“We highlight the role of international cooperation to facilitate access to AI-based technologies and critical components, to remove barriers to the financial resources needed for AI research and innovation, and to develop the knowledge, skills and risk management frameworks needed to effectively leverage AI technologies, especially in low- and middle-income countries,” the document reads.

Another highlight is the joint concern about the issue of intellectual property, especially copyright, as criticism has been common regarding the use of unauthorized content developed using technology .

“We need a balance between property rights, transparency and accountability to safeguard the public interest, international technology transfer and compliance with national legislation and applicable international law,” the document says.

In line with the tone adopted in other topics at the summit, BRICS understands that multilateralism should guide countries' use of AI. The group advocates an effort to establish global governance, centered on the United Nations (UN).

The understanding is that this centralization will allow for mitigating risks and ensuring more inclusive access to technology. According to the group, this would facilitate the exchange of policies and dialogues on AI, in addition to stimulating innovation and economic growth.

Another guideline presented by the group concerns AI regulatory mechanisms. BRICS argues that the “digital economy requires safeguarding the rights and obligations of States, companies and users under national laws and regulations and applicable international agreements.”

Specific sections of the document address concerns about the environmental and social impacts of the use of artificial intelligence, such as the labor market. The group recognizes the potential of AI to increase productivity, innovation and new employment opportunities, but speaks of “challenges, concerns and risks regarding working conditions, work intensity, job displacement and threats to employment and the dignity of workers.”

The issue of negative algorithmic errors and biases, which cause discrimination and exclusion of certain social groups, is also raised.

“Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and groups in vulnerable situations, such as children, youth, and the elderly, tend to be the most affected by AI systems trained with biased materials. Interdisciplinary collaboration between people from different backgrounds is essential to establish standards, improve the explainability of the model’s operation and results,” says an excerpt from the statement.

The issue of the ethical use of AI also involves combating the manipulation of information and the production and dissemination of false content.

“The generation of realistic-looking fake text, images, audio and video content poses significant threats to the integrity and authenticity of information and can lead to the manipulation of public opinion, incitement of social unrest and undermining of trust in public institutions,” the statement said.

To address the problem, the group suggests “greater centrality in media literacy strategies and local communication efforts,” which would allow for the development of tools to quickly flag misinformation and disinformation, and the promotion of digital literacy and critical skills among individuals.