AI is a technology that has the potential to revolutionize society, but U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo warns that it must be advanced responsibly. Speaking at the inaugural convening of the International Network of AI Safety Institutes in San Francisco, Raimondo emphasized the importance of considering the consequences of AI advancements. She urged participants to prioritize safety and ensure that AI serves people rather than endangering them.
The event brought together technical experts from government, industry, academia, and civil society to discuss how to manage the risks associated with increasingly capable AI systems. Raimondo outlined two key principles for participants to keep in mind: avoiding the release of models that could harm people and ensuring that AI is used to benefit society. This marks a significant step forward in international collaboration on AI governance, with AISIs from nine nations and the European Commission coming together to address the challenges posed by AI.
The formation of AISIs began last November during the AI Safety Summit hosted by the UK, with both the UK and US governments announcing the establishment of their respective institutes to evaluate the safety of cutting-edge AI models. This initiative has since expanded to include countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Kenya, South Korea, and Singapore. The members of the International Network of AI Safety Institutes have a mission to create a forum for technical expertise from around the world to collaborate on understanding AI safety risks and developing mitigations.
Raimondo’s remarks underscore the unique nature of AI as a technology and the need for responsible advancement. While AI has the potential to drive innovation and improve lives, it also presents risks that must be carefully managed. By bringing together experts and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, the International Network of AI Safety Institutes aims to foster a common understanding of AI safety and develop strategies to address emerging challenges.
Ultimately, the goal of the International Network of AI Safety Institutes is to ensure that AI is developed and deployed in a way that benefits society while minimizing potential harms. By prioritizing safety and responsible governance, the network seeks to harness the power of AI for the greater good. As AI continues to advance at a rapid pace, international collaboration and coordination will be essential to navigating the complex ethical, social, and technical issues associated with this transformative technology.
