Bahrain’s proposed law to ensure safe tech development and drive innovation

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain is taking a proactive approach to regulating artificial intelligence (AI) with a new proposed law that aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the emerging technology. Ali Al Shahabi, a member of the Shura Council and Vice-President of its Human Rights Committee, highlighted the importance of this legislation in a recent interview with our sister newspaper Al Ayam.

He stressed the need for swift action in this rapidly evolving field, noting that many countries lack the necessary legal frameworks to govern AI effectively. Al Shahabi believes that countries that successfully implement comprehensive AI regulations, safeguarding all stakeholders – from developers and programmers to companies and end-users – will be at the forefront of attracting AI companies and talent. This is precisely the goal of the proposed law, which has been approved by the Shura Council and is now being sent to the executive branch for consideration.

The proposed law advocates for the establishment of a dedicated unit to oversee AI development, protect investors, and ensure the safety of individuals. It also outlines specific guidelines and requirements to minimise exploitation and offer comprehensive protection to all users. Al Shahabi highlighted the Shura Council’s commitment to enacting further legislation to safeguard children from technological exploitation. This includes utilising AI technologies to protect children through intelligent monitoring systems that can detect suspicious behavior.

Concerns

The interview also addressed concerns about the potential impact of AI on the workforce. Al Shahabi acknowledged that many citizens and residents are apprehensive about the introduction of AI, fearing that it could eventually replace human workers in certain jobs. He reassured the public that AI will not eliminate human roles entirely but will instead transform the nature of jobs and work processes.

Additionally, he emphasised the importance of continuous skill development and improvement to adapt to the changing landscape and leverage AI to enhance services, efficiency, and productivity. Moreover, the proposed law recognises the importance of human involvement in decision-making and prohibits AI from replacing humans in this critical area.

Al Shahabi explained that the law safeguards the continued relevance of human workers by ensuring that AI remains a tool to enhance, rather than replace, human capabilities.

Monitoring

Furthermore, Al Shahabi also delved into the crucial aspect of monitoring AI developers and programmers to prevent the development of potentially harmful robots and technologies. The Shura Council member underscored that the proposed law addresses this concern by establishing a dedicated AI unit with specific responsibilities, including oversight of AI systems, collaboration with relevant authorities, and the requirement for developers and users to report any incidents, violations, or breaches.

The law empowers the AI unit with the authority to investigate, gather evidence, and take action against violations, ensuring a robust framework for responsible AI development. The proposed law also includes provisions for licensing AI development activities, prohibiting unlicensed operations and outlining clear procedures for obtaining licenses.

Online dangers

Additionally, the interview explored the potential of AI to protect children from online dangers. Al Shahabi highlighted the ability of AI to filter harmful content, including violence and hate speech, thus creating a safer online environment for children. He stressed the capability of AI to detect harmful behaviors through intelligent monitoring of online interactions, identifying potential bullying and sexual exploitation attempts.

Al Shahabi stressed the importance of clear legislation to minimise online risks for children and ensure a safe online environment for them. He pointed out that the proposed law will include provisions to address these concerns, utilizing AI to create a safer online experience for children.

Key features of the proposed law:

• Regulation of AI Technologies: The law aims to regulate the use of AI, ensuring responsible development and deployment.

• Protection of Privacy: The law prioritises protecting individuals’ privacy and safeguarding them from potential risks associated with AI.

• Human Rights Preservation: The law emphasises upholding fundamental human rights and personal security for all citizens and residents.

• Encouraging Innovation: The law aims to foster investment and innovation in the AI sector by creating a favorable environment for developers and companies.

• Prohibition of Harmful AI Applications: The law prohibits the use of AI for dangerous purposes that are difficult to control, including the deployment of uncontrolled robots and autonomous systems.

• Safeguarding Human Roles: The law recognises the importance of human involvement in decision-making and prohibits AI from replacing humans in this critical area.

• Monitoring and Oversight: The law establishes a dedicated AI unit with specific responsibilities for oversight, investigation, and enforcement, ensuring responsible development and deployment of AI.

• Protecting Children: The law includes provisions to use AI to protect children from online dangers, including filtering harmful content and detecting suspicious behavior.

Advancements

Al Shahabi believes that Bahrain is well-positioned to leverage AI for significant advancements across various sectors.

He anticipates transformative changes in finance, banking, logistics, transportation, healthcare, cybersecurity, tourism, and government services.