Abhijit Dubey, CEO of Japanese IT company NTT DATA, underscores the critical need for global standards in artificial intelligence (AI) regulation to mitigate the risks posed by its rapid development. Speaking at the Reuters Global Markets Forum during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Dubey highlighted that the primary issue is not over-regulation or under-regulation, but rather the absence of a unified global regulatory framework. Dubey stressed that without standardized regulations, the development of AI could encounter significant risks. He remarked, “What we really need is standard regulation globally,” pointing out that inconsistencies could result in unintended negative consequences. One key concern is intellectual property protection. As AI systems advance, they generate original creations that require safeguarding under intellectual property laws. However, without consistent global standards, protecting these works is challenging, potentially stifling innovation and progress in AI development.
Energy efficiency presents another area where global standards could yield substantial benefits. AI systems demand considerable computing power and energy. Establishing global standards could encourage the creation of more energy-efficient AI technologies, benefiting both the environment and the companies deploying these systems. Dubey also highlighted the threats posed by piracy and deepfakes. Deepfakes, which are highly realistic yet fabricated videos or audio generated by AI, pose significant challenges, including spreading misinformation. A global regulatory approach could help mitigate these risks through the establishment of clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, Dubey emphasized the need to integrate business strategies with AI strategies. He pointed out that companies should see these strategies as interconnected to fully leverage AI's potential for boosting productivity. “The biggest issue with AI in terms of getting value is not the technology itself. The technology is there and will continue to improve,” he noted. For successful AI adoption, a well-prepared workforce is essential. Employee training and education are crucial to ensure readiness for integrating AI into daily operations.
Without this preparedness, companies may struggle to capitalize on AI advancements and miss out on potential benefits. Moreover, having the appropriate data architecture is vital for implementing AI solutions effectively. Companies need the necessary infrastructure to support AI technologies, which requires strategic investment in technology and skilled personnel to manage and operate these systems. Dubey’s insights highlight the importance of aligning global regulation, business strategy, and technological progress. By adopting a unified approach to AI regulation, countries and companies can collectively harness the advantages of AI while minimizing associated risks, leading to more sustainable developments and driving innovation and economic growth.
In summary, as AI technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the need for global standards in regulation becomes increasingly critical. Addressing areas such as intellectual property protection, energy efficiency, and the prevention of piracy and deepfakes through a coherent global framework can help mitigate AI-related risks. Furthermore, aligning business and AI strategies, along with preparing the workforce, can unlock the full potential of AI, enhancing productivity and fostering innovation. Dubey’s call for global standards serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility in shaping AI's future for the benefit of society as a whole. This comprehensive approach to AI regulation underscores the necessity of collaboration among international stakeholders, businesses, and policymakers. As AI increasingly integrates into everyday life, establishing clear and consistent guidelines is essential to maximize its benefits and minimize its risks. Through collective effort and a shared vision, the global community can navigate AI's challenges and transform them into opportunities for growth and advancement.