Japan Unveils Global GenAI Regulation Framework

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida introduced an international framework for the regulation and use of generative AI during a recent meeting held at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris.

The framework results from Japan’s leadership in the “Hiroshima AI Process” launched by the G7 under Japan’s presidency in May 2023, which aimed to promote safe, secure, and trustworthy AI.

This process led to the creation of the world's first international framework, the Hiroshima AI Process Comprehensive Policy Framework.

This framework encompasses the “Hiroshima Process International Guiding Principles for All AI Actors” and the “Hiroshima Process International Code of Conduct for Organizations Developing Advanced AI Systems,” which include guiding principles aimed at mitigating risks related to generative AI development and usage.

Kishida highlighted, “Generative AI has the potential to be a vital tool to further enrich the world. AI will make great contributions toward finding solutions to various issues, including healthcare and climate change, in a way that was unthinkable in the past.”

“At the same time, one cannot shed light only on the bright side of generative AI. We must also confront the dark side of AI, such as the risk of disinformation,” Kishida further added.

Mathias Cormann, OECD Secretary General, praised Japan's efforts and emphasized the need for implementing the Hiroshima AI Process. Additionally, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, virtually present at the event, echoed the significance of the Hiroshima AI Process and its associated principles and code of conduct.

During the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting, Kishida also announced the launch of the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, a voluntary coalition supporting the framework's principles.

This group has garnered participation from 49 countries and regions, including several OECD members, indicating broad international support for responsible AI governance.