Governance and Accountability
The cornerstone of AI assurance is strong governance. This framework emphasises the need for clear policies, roles, and responsibilities within government agencies to ensure AI systems are used ethically and responsibly. Agencies must develop a positive AI risk culture, where AI risks are proactively managed and discussed, fostering an environment that prioritises ethical standards and transparency.
Risk-Based Approach to AI
AI technologies present varying degrees of risk depending on their application. The framework encourages a risk-based approach, ensuring that AI systems used in high-risk scenarios undergo rigorous assessment and oversight. This approach allows governments to mitigate potential harms while enabling innovation in low-risk settings.
Governments are advised to continuously monitor AI systems throughout their lifecycle, from design to deployment and operation. This ensures that AI systems remain safe, reliable, and in compliance with ethical standards.
Transparency and Explainability
Transparency in AI use is vital for maintaining public trust. The framework mandates that governments disclose when AI is being used, providing clear explanations of how AI systems operate and how decisions are made. This includes maintaining records of AI systems’ decisions, data inputs, and testing procedures. Explainability ensures that the public understands AI’s role in decision-making and can challenge outcomes if necessary.
Data Governance
AI relies on high-quality data to function effectively. The framework places significant emphasis on responsible data governance, ensuring data used in AI systems is accurate, reliable, and representative of the populations it affects. Proper data management, including the authentication and protection of data, is critical for reducing risks and improving AI’s effectiveness in government applications.
Privacy and Security
Protecting individual privacy is another priority under the framework. AI systems must comply with privacy laws, ensuring that personal information is handled with care. Privacy by design is encouraged, requiring governments to assess the necessity of using personal data in AI systems and consider alternatives like anonymisation and encryption to minimise privacy risks.
Fairness and Human-Centered Values
AI systems in government must promote fairness and human-centred values. This involves ensuring AI does not discriminate based on factors like race, gender, or disability. Inclusivity is prioritised, ensuring that AI systems are accessible and consider the needs of diverse communities. In addition, human oversight is mandatory, with humans remaining accountable for AI-driven decisions.
