BRICS Nations Unite to Curb Unauthorised AI Use and Strengthen Data Rights
During the 17th BRICS Summit held on July 6 in Rio de Janeiro, leaders of the 11 emerging economies approved a joint declaration that places responsible artificial intelligence (AI) governance at the forefront of their agenda for the first time. In a powerful unified statement, the coalition has called for safeguards to protect against misuse of AI, specifically from illegal data harvesting, and underscored the need for systems that will offer fair compensation when AI systems utilize copyrighted material.
The draft statement, reviewed by Reuters, outlines the group’s intention to address growing concerns about how AI technologies impact data privacy and ownership. BRICS leaders pointed out that leading tech firms—mainly from wealthier countries—have resisted calls to pay copyright fees for using online content to train their AI systems.
Modi Emphasizes Balanced Approach to AI: Innovation with Ethics and Responsibility
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, representing India, voiced the country’s stance on responsible AI use. He stated that India sees AI as a tool to enhance human values and potential. He highlighted the need to strike a balance between addressing risks and encouraging innovation. “Technology, especially artificial intelligence, plays a vital role in the progress and prosperity of this century,” Modi said. He acknowledged the transformational aspects of AI but reiterated the ethical issues and potential for bias.
Modi extended an invitation to the BRICS countries for the AI Impact Summit, which India plans to host next year, as a way to continue the conversation on ethical use of AI and innovation.
The joint declaration noted that AI has exceptional potential for advancement. However, the BRICS countries noted it is imperative to develop an inclusive governance framework with global reach and accessibility. The leaders called for cooperation according to common principles and shared values, manage the risks, guarantee that everyone has a fair share of the benefits of AI, especially those from the Global South.
“With respect to global AI governance, there should be a joint effort – that also develops trust, fairness, and equitable participation by developing countries”, it said.
