The World Economic Forum (WEF), in collaboration with Accenture, has released a comprehensive framework for the governance of generative artificial intelligence (AI), aimed at guiding global AI policy-makers. Titled “Governance in the Age of Generative AI: A 360º Approach for Resilient Policy and Regulation,” this white paper is set to influence governments, industries, and civil society as they prepare to address the challenges and opportunities of rapidly evolving AI technologies.
The WEF’s framework adopts a three-pronged approach, or “pillars,” for generative AI governance. The first pillar, “Harness the Past,” urges governments to build on existing regulatory frameworks and address any gaps caused by the unique attributes of AI. In many jurisdictions, regulations such as privacy laws and intellectual property protections may not fully encompass the complexities introduced by AI technologies. The report advises governments to thoroughly evaluate their regulatory landscapes, identifying tensions and opportunities within current policies.
The second pillar, “Build the Present,” emphasizes the need for a whole-of-society approach to governance. AI technologies impact various sectors and communities, requiring input not just from regulators but also from industry, academia, and civil society. The report highlights the importance of knowledge-sharing across sectors to develop robust governance structures. It also encourages governments to collaborate with industry to ensure that AI innovations prioritize societal benefit, and proposes financial incentives, such as grants or tax credits, to reward responsible AI development.
The third pillar, “Plan the Future,” focuses on preparedness and agility in governance. Generative AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and governments must anticipate future challenges through strategic foresight. This includes continuous horizon scanning for new AI capabilities, assessing how AI intersects with other technologies, and incorporating flexible regulatory approaches. The report stresses the importance of international cooperation, calling for harmonized standards and risk management frameworks to prevent fragmentation in global AI governance.
The WEF’s report does not shy away from acknowledging the complexities of regulating generative AI. One of the significant challenges is the tension between fostering innovation and ensuring safety and equity. For instance, AI technologies often require vast datasets for training, raising concerns about privacy and data security. The report suggests that governments should prioritize privacy-preserving solutions and explore ways to enable data sharing for public goods, such as advancements in healthcare or education, without compromising individual rights.
Moreover, the rise of generative AI models has intensified debates around intellectual property (IP) and content creation. These technologies can produce content based on copyrighted material, leading to potential legal battles over ownership. The WEF urges policy-makers to develop clear guidelines on how AI-generated content fits within existing IP frameworks and calls for international collaboration to address these concerns effectively.
The white paper emphasizes that no single country or entity can tackle the governance of generative AI alone. The international nature of AI development and its wide-reaching implications demand coordinated global efforts. The WEF advocates for international cooperation on issues such as safety, risk management, and the creation of global standards for AI technologies. The report calls for shared knowledge, infrastructure, and resources between nations, particularly to support low-resource economies that may stand to benefit significantly from AI but lack the means to develop robust governance systems.
The WEF also highlights the need for ongoing dialogue between governments, private companies, and civil society to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that align with societal values. By fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, the report aims to promote a future where AI can contribute positively to global economies and social well-being.
Need Help?
If you have questions or concerns about how to navigate the global AI regulatory landscape, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts can offer valuable insight, and ensure you’re informed and compliant.
