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The 2nd Lisbon Conference of the OSCE PA on "Security in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" took place on 20 May 2024, in Lisbon, Portugal.

Introduction

The 2nd Lisbon Conference of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), co-hosted by the Portuguese Parliament, addressed the critical theme of "Security in the Age of Artificial Intelligence." The event underscored the need for enhanced cooperation and robust policies to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The conference brought together approximately 170 participants, including 70 parliamentarians from 27 OSCE participating States, along with numerous experts from academia, international bodies, such as the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, and the private sector.

Opening Session

The opening session highlighted the urgent need for parliaments to address AI's rapid advancements. Speakers emphasized the role of parliamentarians in shaping AI policies that balance innovation and security, guided by ethical principles and democratic processes. The session set the tone for the day's discussions, underscoring the significance of cooperative security and the need to stay ahead of AI's rapid changes.

Session I: Understanding Artificial Intelligence and its Impact in the OSCE Region

Key Messages:

• AI's technological advancements present both opportunities and challenges across various sectors.
• The session underscored the importance of establishing common standards at global, regional, and local levels to balance innovation with safety.
• Participants highlighted the risks associated with AI, such as digital manipulation, disinformation, privacy and copyright infringements, job displacement, and autonomous decision-making.
• There was a strong call for the development of mechanisms for independent monitoring and coherent policy-making to ensure responsible AI use.

Session II: Protecting Democracy and Promoting Development Through Artificial Intelligence

Key Messages:

• AI has the potential to significantly enhance democracy and development by improving governance, decision-making, and citizen engagement.
• The session emphasized the need for coherent global regulations to prevent AI misuse and uphold human rights.
• Participants discussed the transformative impact of AI on various sectors, particularly healthcare, while raising concerns about surveillance and ownership of data.
• The importance of transparency, accountability, education, and international cooperation was stressed to harness AI's benefits while mitigating risks such as corruption and inequalities.

Session III: Regulating Artificial Intelligence - The Role of National Parliaments

Key Messages:

• National parliaments play a pivotal role in navigating the regulatory complexities of AI.
• The session explored the challenges and approaches to AI regulation at both the European and national levels.
• Participants advocated for adopting forward-looking regulations that remain fit-for-purpose in a rapidly changing world.
• The need for a cohesive global approach was emphasized, highlighting the necessity for synchronized efforts among all key stakeholders to ensure effective AI governance.

Closing Session

The closing session reinforced the exceptional track record of the OSCE PA in addressing AI-related security issues. It highlighted the need for continued dialogue and collaboration on AI within the OSCE framework, suggesting the creation of new structures to further explore and provide recommendations in this evolving field. The session concluded with a call to action for the upcoming Annual Session in Bucharest, where further recommendations on AI governance and security are expected to be adopted.

Conclusion

The 2nd Lisbon Conference set a solid foundation for ongoing discussions on AI governance and security within the OSCE framework. The event's outcomes will feed into the OSCE PA’s upcoming Annual Session in Bucharest, where further recommendations on AI governance and security are expected to be adopted. The conference underscored the essential role of international cooperation in developing robust policies to harness AI's potential while mitigating its risks.

Click here for the Conference Highlights

Click here for the Concept Note

Click here for the Draft Agenda

CONTACT

Anna Di Domenico
Communications and Press Officer
Email: [email protected]