Tag Archives: governance

Public sector IT strategies 2024: Leveraging AI and Blockchain for transforming governance

Public sector IT strategies 2024: Leveraging AI and Blockchain for transforming governance

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the public sector IT leaders who successfully navigate the integration of AI and blockchain will be well-positioned to deliver transformative changes in governance.

We’re seeing a huge shift in how governments are using technology. It’s not just about upgrading computers anymore, it’s about using powerful tools like AI and blockchain to completely change how things work. This is a chance to make governments more efficient, transparent, and trustworthy.

Think of all the ways AI is already being used: streamlining welfare, making immigration decisions fairer, catching fraudsters, planning cities, and even helping doctors. And this is just the beginning!

But there are worries too. Can we trust AI to be fair and unbiased? That’s where blockchain comes in. It’s like a digital ledger that keeps track of everything, making sure AI decisions are transparent and accountable.

Imagine a world where:

  • Every government decision made by AI is recorded and can be checked by anyone, ensuring fairness and stopping corruption.
  • AI analyses huge amounts of data to help governments understand what citizens need and provide better services.
  • Cities use AI and blockchain to manage traffic, energy, and waste more efficiently

The adoption of AI in government operations has already begun to yield significant benefits across various domains. From streamlining welfare payments to optimising immigration decisions, AI’s impact is far-reaching. Public servants are harnessing its capabilities to detect fraud, plan infrastructure projects, respond to citizen queries, assist in bail hearings, triage healthcare cases, and even establish drone paths. These applications merely scratch the surface of AI’s potential in the public sector.

However, the integration of AI into existing systems is not without its challenges. Concerns about transparency, accountability, and the potential for bias in AI decision-making processes have led some governments to approach this technology with caution. This is where blockchain technology enters the picture, offering a solution that addresses these concerns while amplifying the benefits of AI.

Incorporating Blockchain into AI-driven government systems

Blockchain, with its inherent characteristics of immutability, transparency, and decentralisation, provides a robust framework for ensuring the integrity and traceability of AI-driven processes. By keeping an unalterable record of all changes and decisions made by AI systems, blockchain technology can serve as a crucial accountability mechanism. This symbiotic relationship between AI and blockchain has the potential to create a new paradigm in public sector IT – one that combines the efficiency and insights of AI with the trust and transparency of blockchain.

The AI Strategy for Government, as outlined by various forward-thinking administrations, presents a vision where government agencies leverage AI to deliver high-impact outcomes in their core business. This strategy typically encompasses five key recommendations:

  • Identifying common AI applications that can be proliferated across different departments and agencies.
  • Pinpointing signature AI use cases to demonstrate tangible impact and build public confidence.
  • Productionising AI tools by building centralised infrastructure and resources.
  • Proliferating AI capabilities by broadening and deepening technical expertise within the public sector workforce.
  • Strengthening trust in the government’s use of AI by establishing robust governance frameworks.

These recommendations provide a solid foundation for the integration of AI into public sector operations. However, the addition of blockchain technology can significantly enhance this strategy, addressing some of the key concerns associated with AI adoption in government.

One of the primary advantages of incorporating blockchain into AI-driven government systems is the establishment of an immutable audit trail. Every decision made by an AI system can be recorded on the blockchain, creating a transparent and tamper-proof record. This not only ensures accountability but also allows for thorough scrutiny of AI decision-making processes, helping to identify and mitigate potential biases or errors.

The use of smart contracts on blockchain platforms can help align AI systems with their primary tasks and objectives. Smart contracts can be programmed to enforce specific rules and conditions, ensuring that AI systems operate within predefined parameters. This creates a system of checks and balances, mitigating the risk of AI systems deviating from their intended purposes or making unauthorised decisions.

The synergy between AI and blockchain extends beyond mere record-keeping and accountability. AI can analyse the vast amounts of data stored on blockchain networks to derive valuable insights for policymaking. By processing citizen feedback, transaction data, and other relevant information stored on the blockchain, AI systems can help governments make more informed, data-driven decisions that are responsive to the needs and preferences of their citizens.

Transforming public services with AI and Blockchain

This data-driven approach to governance has the potential to transform how public services are delivered. For instance, AI algorithms could analyse blockchain-stored data on citizens’ interactions with various government services to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or areas for improvement. This information could then be used to optimise service delivery, potentially leading to more personalised, responsive, and anticipatory public services.

In the area of policy-making and planning, the combination of AI and blockchain can provide governments with unprecedented capabilities. AI’s predictive analytics, when applied to the wealth of data securely stored on blockchain networks, can offer more accurate forecasts and deeper insights into societal trends. This could enable governments to anticipate future challenges, from demographic shifts to economic fluctuations, and develop proactive policies to address them.

The potential applications of this technology duo are vast and varied. In the field of public finance, for instance, AI could analyse blockchain-recorded transaction data to detect patterns indicative of fraud or tax evasion, while the immutability of blockchain ensures the integrity of financial records. In healthcare, AI could process anonymised patient data stored on blockchain networks to identify public health trends or predict disease outbreaks, all while maintaining patient privacy and data security.

In the domain of smart cities, the convergence of AI, blockchain, and spatial computing presents exciting possibilities. AI algorithms could analyse data from IoT devices recorded on blockchain networks to optimise traffic flow, energy consumption, and waste management. The immutability and transparency of blockchain would ensure the integrity of this data, while smart contracts could automate various city operations based on predefined conditions.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that the integration of AI and blockchain in public sector IT is not without challenges. Technical hurdles, such as scalability issues in blockchain networks and the computational demands of AI systems, need to be addressed. There are also important ethical considerations, particularly around data privacy and the potential for surveillance. The successful implementation of these technologies requires significant investment in infrastructure and human capital. Governments need to prioritise the development of AI and blockchain expertise within their workforce, potentially through partnerships with academic institutions and the private sector.

Public acceptance and trust are also critical factors. Governments must be transparent about how they’re using these technologies and provide clear explanations of how AI-blockchain systems make decisions that affect citizens’ lives. Public education initiatives may be necessary to help citizens understand the benefits and limitations of these technologies.

In Conclusion

Despite these challenges, I believe the potential benefits of integrating AI and blockchain in public sector IT far outweigh the obstacles. This technological convergence offers a path towards more efficient, transparent, and responsive governance – a goal that should be at the forefront of any public sector IT strategy.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the public sector IT leaders who successfully navigate the integration of AI and blockchain will be well-positioned to deliver transformative changes in governance. By harnessing the analytical power of AI and the trust-building capabilities of blockchain, governments can create a new paradigm of public service – one that is more efficient, more accountable, and more attuned to the needs of citizens.

In conclusion, the focus on integrating AI with existing systems and adopting blockchain technology in the public sector represents a forward-thinking approach to governance in the digital age. This strategy has the potential to enhance decision-making, improve service delivery, optimise internal operations, and strengthen public trust in government institutions. As these technologies continue to evolve and mature, we can expect to see increasingly sophisticated applications that redefine the relationship between citizens and their governments.

The journey towards fully realising the potential of AI and blockchain in public sector IT will undoubtedly be complex and challenging. It will require sustained commitment, significant resources, and a willingness to embrace change and innovation. However, for those governments willing to embark on this journey, the rewards promise to be transformative – ushering in a new era of smart, responsive, and trustworthy governance that is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

 

 

Source: https://ciosea.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/public-sector-it-strategies-2024-leveraging-ai-and-blockchain-for-transforming-governance/113050118

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
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Workshop focuses on blockchain use in e-governance initiatives

Workshop focuses on blockchain use in e-governance initiatives

The use of blockchain technology applications in e-governance received a boost at a workshop kicked off in Phnom Penh yesterday.

The workshop is organised by the Tokyo-based Asian Productivity Organization (APO) along with the National Productivity Centre (NPCC) of the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) from August 5 to 9, said an official release.

The opening session, presided over by Phork Sovanrith, MISTI’s Secretary of State and APO Director for Cambodia, brought together productivity representatives from various countries including Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam.

“Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force in various sectors, including e-government initiatives in Cambodia. Its application can significantly enhance transparency, efficiency, and security in governmental processes,” said Sovanrith.

Blockchains is an emerging, disruptive technology that has the potential to transform ICT services. In blockchains, transactions are approved and validated with the consensus of a majority of stakeholders.

Throughout the programme, productivity representatives from the region will explore the practical applications of blockchain-driven solutions in e-governance systems.

The objective is to help participants grasp the importance of blockchain architecture in advancing e-government initiatives and improving service delivery by public sector organizations, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of e-government programmes through the integration of blockchain technology.

APO promotes productivity in the Asia-Pacific region through collaborative activities, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to enhance economic growth and development, the release noted.

Blockchain technology has been adopted by many governments in efforts to strengthen e-government programs. Offering a course on blockchain-driven solutions in e-governance demonstrates a commitment to capacity building among public-sector professionals.

It equips a government with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of integrating blockchains into existing systems. These technologies can strengthen e-government programmes, promote public administration transformation, and provide transparent and secure public services.

Blockchains, augmented virtual reality, and AI are expected to improve digital public services in the future.

 

Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501535762/workshop-focuses-on-blockchain-use-in-e-governance-initiatives/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j

EU AI Act: A Significant Step Toward Global AI Governance

EU AI Act: A Significant Step Toward Global AI Governance

In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool that has transformed many aspects of modern life, including creating and consuming content. Using generative AI tools like ChatGPT has opened up new possibilities for content creation but has also raised new challenges and questions around copyright. The issue of copyright and AI-generated content is complex, involving various legal and ethical considerations.

As AI technologies become more prevalent in content creation, it is essential to address the questions of ownership, attribution, and compensation for AI-generated works. One of the primary challenges is that existing copyright laws are struggling to keep up with the rapid advancements in AI technology. The current legal framework, designed for traditional forms of content creation, may not be adequately equipped to address the unique aspects of AI-generated content.

Moreover, as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, it is crucial to consider the ethical implications, particularly around issues such as bias, privacy, and accountability. AI algorithms can amplify existing biases, leading to unfair treatment of certain groups or individuals. Additionally, AI-generated content can raise privacy concerns as it may involve the use of personal data.

To address these challenges, policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders are working to establish clear guidelines and regulations that balance the interests of creators, users, and AI technologies while considering the ethical implications of AI-generated content. For instance, the European Union (EU) is currently drafting the AI Act, a new law aimed at regulating the use of AI technologies in the EU. We will talk more about this in this article.

What is EU AI Act?

The European Union (EU) introduced the EU AI Act in April 2021, proposing a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for AI. The proposed regulation covers all types of AI in various sectors, including entities that use AI systems professionally. The regulation aims to tackle challenges and risks linked to AI development and deployment, including discriminatory and rights-violating AI.

The EU AI Act primarily puts the responsibility on AI system providers to create a legal framework for developing, distributing, and using AI. The regulation includes broad and general articles to ensure its application across different industries and use cases. The EU AI Act is currently undergoing the legislative process and is subject to the ordinary legislative procedure for the EU. Members of the European Parliament agreed on the AI Act preliminarily in April 2023, and the text is scheduled to proceed to a plenary vote in June 2023. Upon approval, the EU AI Act will be among the first AI-specific regulations in the world.

It is essential to note that the EU AI Act is a significant development in regulating AI systems as it comprehensively and uniformly addresses the associated risks and challenges comprehensively and uniformly. The regulation’s general nature ensures adaptability and applicability across different industries and use cases, marking a significant step towards AI regulation in the EU.

How would EU AI Act help with generative works?

The EU AI Act, a proposed regulation for the use of AI technology, may also help regulate the use of generative works. The act includes provisions on transparency, data quality, and human oversight, which are relevant to developing and using generative AI models such as ChatGPT. In particular, the act would require companies that use AI tools to disclose any copyrighted materials employed in developing their systems. This could help prevent the unauthorized use of intellectual property in generative works. Additionally, the EU proposes requiring companies that provide generative AI services to explain the reasons and ethical standards for their decisions.

It’s worth noting that generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, have also come under scrutiny in other areas. For example, the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) examines how generative AI tools could propagate bias or misinformation and create risks in the financial services sector. Some experts have pointed out that algorithms used by generative AI tools like ChatGPT could be subject to legal protections similar to those that govern the content on social media platforms like YouTube.

Generative AI was not prominently featured in the original proposal for the AI Act, as it only had one mention of “chatbot” in the 108-page document. However, the act has been revised to include stricter rules for “foundation model” systems, which include generative AI systems like ChatGPT. The revised text also emphasizes the importance of developing European standards for AI, which could help ensure that generative AI models meet the act’s essential requirements for different levels of risk.

Risks and challenges associated with the development and deployment of AI

The development and deployment of AI come with various risks and challenges that must be addressed to ensure its ethical use. One of the main concerns is that AI systems, if not implemented correctly, can violate human rights and discriminate against marginalized communities. Discriminatory AI systems can lead to biased decision-making processes that disproportionately affect certain groups, such as migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.

Moreover, AI systems that interact with physical objects, such as autonomous vehicles and robots, have the potential to cause harm, making safety and security a significant ethical concern in AI development. The development of AI-generated code can also lead to unintended consequences, and LLMs’ ability to generate functional code is limited, making them powerful tools for answering high-level but specific technical questions.

To address these challenges, the Asilomar AI Principles recommend that AI systems be developed and employed to reduce the risk of unintentional harm to humans. It is also important to ensure that AI systems are designed to be inclusive and transparent and to minimize the risk of unintentional harm to human users.

As the EU and the US are jointly pivotal to the future of global AI governance, it is crucial to ensure that EU and US approaches to AI risk management are generally aligned to facilitate bilateral trade. At the same time, AI developers need to establish safeguards that protect users from potential risks. OpenAI, for instance, has established AI safeguards and has a vision for AI’s ethical and responsible development.

How is the United States looking at AI copyright?

The topic of AI copyright rules in the United States is a complex and evolving issue. Several recent legal cases and proposed regulations shed light on the current state of the law.

One major concern is whether AI-generated works can be protected by copyright law. Currently, most countries, including the US, require a human author for copyright protection to arise. However, ongoing discussions and proposed legislation may change this requirement in the future.

Another issue is the use of copyrighted material in training AI models. Some AI tools are trained on massive datasets that contain copyrighted works without obtaining specific licensing for this use. This raises questions about whether this use constitutes copyright infringement.

Recent legal cases also shed light on the issue of AI copyright rules. For example, Getty Images filed a lawsuit against Stability AI in February 2023, alleging copyright, trademark infringement, and trademark dilution.

In April 2023, the US Supreme Court heard a case that could have implications for AI-generated works. The case concerns fair use law and whether AI tools can be protected under it.

Proposed regulations in the European Union may also have an impact on AI copyright rules in the US. The EU is drafting the AI Act to regulate emerging AI technology, including copyright and intellectual property issues.

In conclusion

In conclusion, EU lawmakers have agreed that companies using generative AI tools like ChatGPT will have to disclose any copyrighted material used in developing their systems as part of a larger draft law known as the AI Act. It is a big move in my opinion.

The complex issue of AI-generated content and copyright requires attention from both legal and ethical perspectives. While debates and lawsuits continue regarding the use of generative AI tools in content creation, it is apparent that current copyright laws are struggling to keep up with technological advancements.

As AI continues to revolutionize content production and consumption, policymakers and industry leaders must collaborate to establish guidelines that balance the interests of creators, users, and AI technologies. These guidelines should provide clarity on issues like ownership, attribution, and compensation for AI-generated content.

It is also essential to consider the ethical implications of AI-generated content, including issues like bias, privacy, and accountability. As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, it is crucial to ensure responsible and transparent production and use.

To address this issue, policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders must work together to establish clear guidelines and regulations. These regulations should balance the interests of all parties involved and take into account the ethical implications of AI-generated content. This effort is critical in ensuring that AI continues transforming content creation and consumption fairly, equitably, and responsibly.

 

Source: https://www.securities.io/eu-ai-act-a-significant-step-toward-global-ai-governance/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j