Whether it’s robots coming to take your job or AI military drones, there is no shortage of horror stories about artificial intelligence. Yet for all the potential it has to do harm, AI might has just as much potential to be a force for good in the world, be that through diagnosing cancer or solving climate change.

That’s why the government wants to get your opinion on the ethics behind it after the country’s A.I Taskforce launched a public consultation document on the issue.

As part of the government’s national AI strategy, the ethical framework looks to create a set of guiding principles and practices that can serve as the foundation for further implementation.

The ethical framework is based on a human-centric approach that respects laws, human rights, and democratic values.

It will also maximise the benefits of AI while minimising the risks, and will look to align Malta’s laws with emerging international standards.

On a fundamental level, the document looks at human autonomy in terms of AI, advocating for oversight and ensuring that systems should not “unjustifiably subordinate, coerce, deceive, manipulate condition or nudge humans.”

Fears around AI bias have grown as the debate reaches the mainstream. However, the consultation argues that it is essential to ensure that this not take place.

“Having a framework on ethical and trustworthy AI is crucial as this will serve as guidance in the creation of trustworthy AI projects but most importantly it will play a crucial part in instilling trust amongst the public,” Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation Silvio Schembri said.

The government has long held ambitious plans for AI, determined to become the first country in the world to regulate the sector. The public consultation period is one step in this direction

The public consultation was written by the legal and ethical group within Malta’s AI Taskforce.

Feedback must be provided by Friday 6th September via email on [email protected] or via mail to Malta.AI, Financial Services, Digital Economy and Innovation, Office of the Prime Minister, Auberge de Castile, Valletta, VLT 1061, Malta

The document can be accessed here.

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