Cyril Ramaphosa Advocates for Global AI Oversight at BRICS Summit

At the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi on September 13, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the urgent need for an international framework to assess artificial intelligence (AI) development. His call aligns with concerns raised by leading AI executives advocating for a more cautious approach to technological advancements.

During a session focused on inclusive global growth, Ramaphosa highlighted that while AI holds transformative potential across various sectors, including medicine and agriculture, it also poses significant risks. He asserted, "We must listen carefully to what those who are developing the most powerful AI systems are themselves telling us" about the dangers of advanced capabilities that could lead to manipulation and mass surveillance.

AI Development Must Be Managed Responsibly

Ramaphosa's remarks come in the wake of an essay by Dario Amodei, CEO of AI firm Anthropic, who warned of the rapid pace of AI advancements and the necessity for a slowdown. He argued that without careful management, the development of AI could exceed our understanding and control. As part of his proposed strategies, Amodei suggested embedding third-party evaluators within AI companies to ensure adherence to safety practices and establish common safety standards.

Call for Holistic Oversight

Echoing Amodei's sentiments, Ramaphosa insisted on the importance of external checks and audits in AI development, akin to practices in other high-stakes industries like aviation and pharmaceuticals. He cautioned against reaching a point where technological capability surpasses human oversight. Ramaphosa's address also touched on the critical issue of climate change, urging for integrated disaster risk reduction and equitable access to technology for vulnerable nations.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za