Costa Rica has launched its first “National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2024-2027,” aiming to position the country as a regional leader in ethical AI practices that prioritize human development. The strategy, developed to respond to a fast-evolving global landscape, embraces principles of ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI use, ensuring technology serves collective well-being.
The Costa Rican government has prioritized aligning AI development with national objectives, focusing on protecting citizens while fostering growth. Central to the strategy is a vision of responsible AI adoption across both public and private sectors, aiming to boost innovation without compromising privacy or human rights. The approach aligns closely with broader global concerns about ethical AI, underscoring the importance of transparency, fairness, and accessibility in AI initiatives.
The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy identifies several key focus areas, starting with the development of a regulatory framework to oversee AI activities in Costa Rica. This framework aims to set standards for safe AI use, addressing potential risks and ensuring that any AI system in use aligns with ethical and security standards. Additionally, the strategy mandates regular monitoring and evaluation to keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI technology, safeguarding against potential misuse or unintended consequences.
One of the cornerstone goals of Costa Rica’s AI strategy is the integration of AI into public services to enhance efficiency and accessibility. AI applications are expected to improve areas such as healthcare, education, and transportation. For instance, in healthcare, AI could support doctors with diagnostic tools, while in education, it may be used to customize learning experiences. These initiatives aim to bridge resource gaps, ensuring that all citizens benefit from technological advancements.
The strategy also emphasizes the role of education and workforce development. Recognizing that the growth of AI could reshape job markets, Costa Rica’s AI framework includes measures for upskilling and training the workforce to ensure they remain competitive in an AI-driven economy. This involves partnerships with universities and technical institutions to integrate AI and digital literacy programs, preparing the next generation for roles in AI research, development, and governance.
Additionally, Costa Rica is committed to collaborating with international bodies and private sector innovators. This cooperative approach is designed to share best practices, learn from other nations’ experiences, and ensure that Costa Rica remains a proactive participant in the global AI ecosystem.
The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy is a foundational document that, according to officials, will adapt over time to respond to emerging technologies and challenges. Costa Rica’s approach marks a significant step forward in the Latin American region, where AI policy remains relatively nascent. By embracing an inclusive, transparent, and responsible model, Costa Rica hopes to serve as an example for other nations, showing that it is possible to balance innovation with ethical considerations.
In its commitment to transparency and accountability, Costa Rica has set up an advisory board tasked with overseeing AI developments and ensuring that policy decisions reflect public interests. This board will periodically review the strategy’s implementation and provide recommendations to address challenges.
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