Minister Bonnici Supports Responsible AI In Creative Sector
Malta expressed support for a structured, EU-level framework to ensure the proper, responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in the creative sector.
Speaking in Brussels during the Council of EU Ministers responsible for Education, Youth, Culture and Sport, Minister for Culture, Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici stressed the importance of using AI responsibly to strengthen the cultural sector, incentivise innovation in creative industries, and uphold ethical standards in the best interest of creatives and society at large.
It was a meeting held under the Danish Presidency, which prioritised AI’s role in the cultural sphere.
Minister Bonnici acknowledged that AI development offers major benefits, but warned it could also raise serious concerns within creative fields if not used appropriately, ethically and within a regulatory framework. He emphasised that the primary objective must always be ensuring that AI is used to maximise an artist’s potential, not replace it, describing this as crucial above all else.
For this reason, Bonnici argued that a structured, EU-wide framework is needed to improve coordination and implementation of AI within the cultural sector. Such a framework, he said, would guarantee a level playing field for all EU member states while offering reassurance to both creatives and society regarding the ethical use of AI. He also highlighted the need for this regulatory approach to strike a careful balance, ensuring that essential regulation does not end up stifling innovation in creative industries.
Bonnici further said that professionals in arts and culture must receive training in AI tools if the technology is to truly serve as a valuable instrument in helping artists and creatives reach their full potential.
He added that the ongoing discussion on AI would hold little relevance without recognising the fundamental principle that culture must remain accessible daily and for everyone, allowing all of society to be reached by- and participate in-the creative sector.
During the Council, ministers also discussed the protection of Cultural Heritage in Gaza. Bonnici stated that culture is a core pillar of peace and understanding between nations, and called for continued encouragement of constructive dialogue for the future. He reiterated Malta’s commitment to contributing to these efforts, saying the country stands ready to support any initiative to safeguard cultural heritage for present and future generations.
“Malta is always ready to contribute to these efforts and to support any initiative to ensure that cultural heritage is preserved for today’s and tomorrow’s generations,” he said.
Bonnici also took part in a separate debate on the “Cultural Compass”, an initiative successfully advanced by Maltese Commissioner Glen Micallef. He praised the instrument as a major step forward for cultural development, adding that the Cultural Compass itself represents a celebration of cultural heritage and its protection, and will offer young people and communities a strong foundation for expanded access to culture.
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