In an announcement on 4 December 2023, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni outlined Italy’s key priorities during this year’s G7 presidency. The G7, an organization of the world’s major developed countries, is chaired by Italy from January to December 2024, and under Meloni’s leadership, Italy is set to tackle several important global challenges.
One of the key topics of Italy’s G7 presidency is artificial intelligence (AI) regulation. This focus is not unexpected, given Italy’s proactive stance on AI in recent years, including a temporary ban on OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2023, subject to compliance with data processing restrictions, and its subsequent reinstatement. Italian data protection authorities have paid particular attention to the use of AI in data collection and storage, launching a fact-finding investigation into these practices. Meloni highlighted the enormous impact of AI on labor markets and the need to address these challenges, signaling G7 member countries’ plans for an AI-focused special session ahead of their first summit in June.
The G7 has previously discussed artificial intelligence (AI) ahead of the Italian presidency in 2023. In particular, AI emerged as an important topic at the G7 summit held from May 19 to 21, 2023. The summit emphasized the need for a strong alliance among G7 countries to address new technologies in AI in line with fundamental values such as democracy and human rights. At the G7 Digital and Technology Ministerial Meeting held just before the summit, responsible AI and global AI governance were discussed in detail.
This focus on AI has been driven by the rapid integration of AI technologies into society, including the launch of advanced AI models such as GPT-4. The G7 recognized the importance of developing and implementing AI in a way that is consistent with values such as freedom, democracy and human rights. The G7 statement reflects the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) AI principles, emphasizing principles such as fairness, accountability, transparency, and safety.
The G7 also highlighted the potential risks associated with AI. This includes online bullying, hate speech, threats to the safety and privacy of children, and the misuse of AI to spread disinformation or undermine democratic values. There has also been a strong emphasis on the need for international cooperation to protect intellectual property rights and promote transparency in generative AI. The ‘Hiroshima AI Process’ has been introduced as a framework for discussing generative AI, and will be conducted in collaboration with the OECD and GPAI (Global Partnership in AI).
Another key focus of Italy’s G7 presidency will be support for African development. Prime Minister Meloni emphasized the importance of building cooperation and strategic relationships with African countries based on equality and mutual respect. She highlighted the need for investments and strategies that empower local economies and improve living standards in African countries, addressing the root causes of migration to Europe. Meloni believes that this approach is crucial for sustainable development and stability in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine will also be a major area of interest. Meloni confirmed Italy’s continued support for Ukraine in its war against Russia and advocated maintaining a balance of ground forces to foster a diplomatic solution. The G7’s position on Ukraine, especially in terms of support and political strategy, will be a topic of deliberation throughout the Italian presidency. Additionally, the Middle East conflict, especially the Gaza conflict, is a concern, with Italy calling for the protection of civilian lives and seeking a more permanent solution to the Palestinian issue.
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