Türkiye establishes AI commission to target ethical, security concerns

There is no doubt that artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly important role in various sectors which has, in turn, encouraged the establishment of AI commissions all around the world.

The Turkish Parliament is establishing a dedicated AI Research Commission in the upcoming legislative session. This decision reflects Türkiye’s commitment to staying competitive in the global AI landscape while addressing ethical and security concerns associated with these rapidly evolving technologies.

Expanding role of AI in Türkiye drives need for legislative oversight

The need for a comprehensive examination of AI’s impact has become urgent, given its influence on everything from job markets to national security. The AI commission will include representatives from all political parties, ensuring a balanced approach to AI policy. “We need to discuss AI more extensively,” stated Huseyin Yayman, Chairman of Parliament’s Digital Platforms Commission and AK Party Hatay member of Parliament. He confirmed that efforts are underway to establish this commission in the upcoming legislative session.

The AI commission’s primary focus will be on evaluating AI programs’ reliability, transparency, and compliance with personal data protection standards. Additionally, the commission will examine whether AI technologies are used ethically, especially in critical areas such as security, justice, and healthcare. This commission will invite bureaucrats, experts, and representatives from AI companies to provide insights and information during its proceedings.

Türkiye plans educational, tech advancements with AI commission

Türkiye plans to introduce new educational programs focusing on AI at the high school level and expand AI-related courses in universities. The government also aims to increase state-funded scholarships for AI studies abroad, creating a new generation of AI experts.

In addition to educational initiatives, the AI commission will explore mechanisms to attract global tech companies to conduct AI research and development (R&D) in Türkiye. Plans include establishing a “Türkiye AI Portal” and a “Central Public Data Area” supported by AI, utilizing data from public institutions. These steps aim to position Türkiye as a leader in AI development and innovation.

AI commission to ensure ethical, secure use of AI in Türkiye

The formation of the Turkish AI Commission follows the recent introduction of the AI Law Proposal to the Turkish Parliament in June 2024.

This proposal aims to create a legal framework that ensures AI technologies are used safely, ethically and fairly in Türkiye. The proposed law outlines guidelines for risk management, compliance audits, and personal data protection, with significant penalties for entities that violate these regulations.

The AI Law Proposal emphasizes a three-stage risk assessment process for AI systems, particularly in high-risk areas like autonomous vehicles, medical diagnostics, and judicial systems. It also includes provisions for regular audits and monitoring of AI systems, ensuring continuous oversight to minimize risks. The law introduces penalties, including hefty fines, for non-compliance with these regulations.

Türkiye aligns with global AI trends, innovates with lessons from Brazil

Türkiye’s efforts to regulate AI come in the context of a broader global trend. In March 2024, the European Parliament passed a groundbreaking AI law that set stringent rules on AI use, particularly in biometric identification and other high-risk applications. This law influenced global AI governance, and Türkiye’s actions align with these international standards.

In a related example from Brazil, a city council member in Porto Alegre used AI to draft legislation addressing water meter theft. The AI-generated draft was largely accepted with minimal changes, highlighting the potential of AI in legislative processes. This example illustrates the growing role of AI in governance and the diverse ways countries are experimenting with AI integration in their legislative frameworks.

By establishing its own AI regulatory framework and research commission, Türkiye aims to align with international standards while addressing its unique challenges and opportunities in AI development.