Model artificial intelligence governance framework.

Abstract

In 2019, the world saw significant advances in the sophistication and pervasive use of artificial intelligence (“AI”). For instance, we witnessed the emergence of next-generation AI-powered natural text generators like GPT-2, which can generate passages that are difficult to distinguish from human writing. We also saw the development of Dactyl, a robotic hand, which uses reinforcement learning to grasp and manipulate common household objects with human-like dexterity. These examples attest to the speed of AI’s advancement and how it will become ubiquitous in our daily lives. The discourse on AI ethics and governance has also moved forward. Over the last two years, governments and international organisations have begun issuing principles, frameworks and recommendations on AI ethics and governance. In January 2019, Singapore launched our Model AI Governance Framework (“Model Framework”) at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The Model Framework’s unique contribution to the global discourse on AI ethics lies in translating ethical principles into practical recommendations that organisations could readily adopt to deploy AI responsibly. We are heartened by the diversity of organisations that have adopted the practices outlined in the Model Framework, which underscores its ease-of-use and relevance. Singapore is proud to launch the second edition of the Model Framework. This edition incorporates the experiences of organisations that have adopted AI, and feedback from our participation in leading international platforms, such as the European Commission’s High-Level Expert Group and the OECD Expert Group on AI. Such input has enabled us to provide clearer and effective guidance for organisations to implement AI responsibly.