Vietnam: Balancing AI benefits and risks - Vietnam's approach to responsible AI development through voluntary principles

In brief

  • On 11 June 2024, the minister of the Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam issued Decision 1290/QD-BKHCN providing guidance on principles for researching and developing responsible artificial intelligence (AI) systems ("Decision").
  • This Decision, which came into effect immediately upon issuance, is included with Version 1.0 of the Guide on Principles for Researching and Developing Responsible AI Systems ("Guide"). It is essential to highlight that the Guide is established as a voluntary standard rather than a mandatory rule.
  • The Decision emphasizes a human-centric approach, stressing the importance of balancing the economic benefits of AI with ethical considerations and legal compliance.

Contents

In detail

Key principles outlined in the document include the following:

  1. Collaboration and innovation: Encouraging cooperation among AI developers to ensure interoperability and compatibility between different AI systems, promoting the sharing of information and best practices, and contributing to sustainable economic development
  2. Transparency and explainability: Emphasizing the need for AI systems to be transparent and their decisions explainable, especially for systems that can significantly impact human lives, privacy or property
  3. Controllability, safety and security: Ensuring that AI systems are designed and tested to minimize risks to human life, health and property, and are resilient to cyberattacks and other threats
  4. Privacy and human rights: Protecting individuals' privacy rights and ensuring that AI systems do not discriminate or violate ethical principles
  5. Accountability and user support: Ensuring accountability of AI developers for the systems created and providing users with the necessary information and support to understand and use AI systems effectively

Overall, the Decision aims to cultivate a responsible and ethical AI ecosystem in Vietnam, where AI technologies are developed and utilized to benefit society while minimizing potential risks and harms.

In conclusion

The issuance of the Decision represents an important step in shaping the responsible development of the AI industry and stands as a valuable reference for those involved in the AI landscape in Vietnam.

Our team is diligently monitoring the progress, and we ensure our clients are promptly informed of any related developments. Should you have any questions or require further details, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

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