Demis Hassabis Highlights Need for Global AI Regulation
LONDON: Demis Hassabis, the chief innovator behind Google’s DeepMind and the 2024 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, stressed the necessity of enhanced global collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation during a recent speech. He pointed out the challenges of achieving such cooperation amid today’s complex geopolitical landscape.
As AI technology permeates various sectors, significant ethical concerns have emerged—from combating the dissemination of false information to its ramifications on jobs and the potential loss of control over technology.
Speaking at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in London, Hassabis—recognized for his groundbreaking work in AI—also discussed the implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI). This advanced form of AI has the potential to match or exceed human capabilities.
Hassabis remarked, “The key is to establish some international cooperation because this technology transcends borders and will be implemented in every nation.”
He underscored that a multitude of countries are currently engaged in AI research, developing data centers, or utilizing these technologies. For any regulatory measures to be effective, he believes, a collective international effort is essential, although he acknowledged that this cooperation appears challenging in the current geopolitical climate.
During a February summit in Paris, representatives from 58 nations, including China, France, India, the European Union, and the African Union Commission, advocated for improved coordination in AI governance. However, the United States cautioned against what they termed “excessive regulation,” with Vice President JD Vance warning that it could stifle a transformative industry.
The UK also opted out of signing the summit’s call for an “open,” “inclusive,” and “ethical” approach to AI.
On Monday, Hassabis promoted the idea of implementing “smart, adaptable regulations” that can evolve alongside the technology and its emerging challenges.
