Thailand is taking significant steps towards promoting AI ethics in the region by collaborating with the UN agency Unesco. The Thai government is working towards becoming a regional AI training center to assist developing countries in embracing AI ethics guidelines. Mr. Sak Segkhoonthod, a senior advisor at the AI Governance Clinic (AIGC) at ETDA, emphasized the importance of responsible governance when utilizing artificial intelligence. He highlighted the potential benefits of AI while also acknowledging the risks associated with its use.
One of the key initiatives is the development of an AI governance framework for public agencies to address challenges in various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, energy, and finance. The framework aims to ensure that organizations can implement AI, particularly generative AI (GenAI), in a way that is ethical and respects privacy, security, and copyright concerns. By establishing an AI governance structure, companies can define strategies, manage risks, and oversee AI operations effectively.
Thailand is gearing up to host the first Asia-Pacific international conference, the “Unesco Global Forum for the Ethics of AI 2025,” in Bangkok next year. The conference will focus on the ethical governance of AI and is part of Thailand’s efforts to lead the way in promoting ethical AI implementation globally. The country aims to collaborate with Unesco to set up an AI training center to support other developing nations in the region.
ETDA is set to present AI governance guidelines to the cabinet to assist the public sector in implementing ethical AI practices. Additionally, the organization has introduced GenAI governance guidelines to help organizations understand and utilize GenAI technology effectively. While Thailand does not have a specific AI law yet, there are existing governance guidelines to regulate AI use in both the public and private sectors.
A recent survey, the “AI Readiness Measurement 2024,” revealed that the adoption of AI among Thai organizations is on the rise. More organizations are planning to integrate AI into their operations, particularly in industries such as education, finance, commerce, logistics, and transport. However, there is still a gap when it comes to incorporating AI ethics into business practices. Only a small percentage of organizations have fully integrated AI ethics, indicating the need for greater awareness and understanding of ethical AI governance.
Looking ahead to next year, the focus on ethical AI use and governance is expected to grow globally. As countries recognize the potential opportunities and risks associated with AI, there will be a greater emphasis on ethical guidelines and governance practices. Thailand’s proactive approach to promoting AI ethics serves as a model for other nations looking to embrace artificial intelligence responsibly and sustainably.
