The Global AI Regulatory Landscape: A Diverging Path
Introduction
The global AI regulatory landscape is undergoing significant changes, with governments adopting divergent approaches to artificial intelligence governance. In Asia, North America, and Europe, policymakers are setting new standards that could reshape the future of AI development and deployment.
South Korea’s AI Basic Act: A New Milestone in AI Regulation
On 26 December 2024, South Korea’s National Assembly passed the AI Basic Act, which is set to take effect in January 2026, making it the first country in Asia to introduce a comprehensive AI regulatory framework. This Act establishes clear ethical and safety guidelines for AI development and deployment, positioning South Korea as a leader in AI governance in Asia.
Key Provisions of the AI Basic Act
* Mandates strict safety compliance, requiring AI systems to be designed to prevent discrimination, misinformation, and harm.
* Enforces transparency and accountability, obligating developers to document AI decision-making processes clearly.
* Establishes a government oversight body, tasked with monitoring compliance and enforcing penalties for violations.
Trump Rescinds Biden’s AI Executive Order
On 20 January 2025, Donald Trump rescinded Joe Biden’s AI executive order, signaling a shift towards a more industry-driven approach. This move has created uncertainty for U.S. tech companies, many of which had begun adapting to Biden’s regulatory framework.
Key Provisions of Trump’s AI Executive Order 14179
* Directs federal agencies to develop an AI action plan within 180 days to ensure U.S. leadership in AI.
* Emphasizes deregulation, aiming to eliminate barriers to AI innovation and avoiding ideological constraints on AI development.
* Prioritizes the role of AI in economic growth and national security, particularly in relation to competition with China.
EU AI Act: First Provisions Come into Effect
On 2 February 2025, the European Union’s AI Act began its phased implementation, marking a significant step towards comprehensive AI governance.
Key Provisions Now in Effect
* AI Literacy (Article 4): Requires organizations deploying AI to ensure that their staff understand both the risks and opportunities of AI. Companies must implement AI governance policies and training programs to enhance compliance and ethical awareness.
* Prohibited AI Practices (Article 5): The Act bans AI applications that pose “unacceptable risks,” including AI systems that manipulate individuals through subliminal or deceptive techniques, exploit vulnerabilities, or engage in social scoring.
How Companies Are Preparing
To comply with the new regulations, companies operating in the EU are:
* Launching AI training programs to ensure staff understand and adhere to the law.
* Conducting system audits to identify and mitigate potential risks in existing AI models.
* Developing internal policies to align with transparency, accountability, and ethical standards.
Conclusion: A Diverging Global AI Governance Landscape
The latest AI regulatory developments in South Korea, the U.S., and the EU reveal a widening gap in global AI governance. The choices made today will determine whether AI serves as a force for progress or a source of unchecked disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
* What is the AI Basic Act?
+ The AI Basic Act is a comprehensive AI regulatory framework passed by the South Korean National Assembly in December 2024.
* What are the key provisions of the EU AI Act?
+ The EU AI Act prohibits AI applications that pose “unacceptable risks,” including AI systems that manipulate individuals, exploit vulnerabilities, or engage in social scoring.
* How are companies preparing for the EU AI Act?
+ Companies are launching AI training programs, conducting system audits, and developing internal policies to ensure compliance and ethical awareness.
