Are you willing to put your trust in artificial intelligence (AI) when it comes to your health? This is not just a fictional idea, as biomedical companies are already developing pacemakers with AI technology. AI, along with other digital advancements, also offers potential for improved resource management and promoting a circular economy. However, these technologies also bring risks and challenges for regulatory processes. That’s why it’s crucial to have standardized regulations in place to monitor AI-embedded products that are constantly evolving.
The Third Forum of the UNECE Working Party on Regulatory Cooperation and Standardization Policies (WP.6) will focus on the digital, green transformation, including AI. The forum will take place in a hybrid format from 2 to 5 April 2024.
The first conference on 2 April will address the challenges faced by regulatory agencies and establish principles for managing risks during the digital, green transition.
The second conference on 3 April will have a gender perspective on the digital, green transition, specifically in relation to product regulations and ensuring that women are also considered.
The third conference on 4 April will discuss how the evolution of digital technology may impact market surveillance and associated regulatory procedures.
In recent years, WP.6 has developed an AI project to create a common regulatory framework and declaration for member states to harmonize regulations for AI-embedded products. As various United Nations agencies are working on AI issues, this project will contribute to the momentum by providing regulatory guidance for member states and businesses to balance reducing trade barriers while maintaining effective market surveillance and risk management.
The project has already published a paper outlining the necessity of standardization and harmonization of regulations for the transition to a digital, green economy. More information on the WP.6 AI project can be found here: https://unece.org/trade/wp6/digital-regulation-goods-artificial-intelligence
We are entering a new era where AI can be a powerful tool for positive and sustainable transformation globally. However, it’s crucial to ensure that our regulatory systems protect us from the risks of AI-embedded products while still allowing for their potential to enhance competitiveness and market growth. This is why strong, internationally harmonized standards are necessary, and WP.6 is working towards their development.
For more information on the forum and registration, please visit https://unece.org/trade/events/wp6-third-forum
Contact information:
Working Party on Regulatory Cooperation and Standardization Policies (WP.6)
[email protected]