Speaker calls for legislative action on AI, ethical standards

Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Monday emphasised the need for legislatures to establish rules to address new technological innovations, including artificial intelligence (AI).

He made these remarks during a debate at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which is currently taking place in Geneva. The theme of the assembly is "Using science, technology and innovation to build a peaceful, secure and sustainable future."

Abdul Raheem highlighted the role of legislative bodies in adapting to technological advancements.

“With new innovations in artificial intelligence, legislatures should formulate rules accordingly. Members of parliament should play an important role in protecting democracy,” he said.

He identified false information and deliberate misinformation as significant challenges to democracy, noting the need for vigilance regarding AI's development. He called for collaboration between experts and society to ensure AI's potential is harnessed for the benefit of humanity.

Abdul Raheem also stressed the importance of legislatures in creating ethical frameworks for science, technology, and innovation (STI), in alignment with the IPU's Code of Conduct for Science and Technology. He called for research on new technological developments to be conducted with integrity and respect for human rights.

In addition to discussing technological challenges, Abdul Raheem addressed geopolitical concerns. He expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Palestine, urging all parties to pursue peace to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.

He also called for an immediate end to the conflict in Lebanon, emphasising the need to end hostilities to protect civilians.