Extremadura is pioneering AI regulation to attract digital businesses
Extremadura is stepping into the future by becoming the first Spanish region to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI). According to "El País" (2023), the regional government, known as the Junta, recently approved a decree-law outlining a strategy to integrate AI into both the public and private sectors. This initiative aims to attract digital businesses to the region by providing a clear and supportive regulatory framework.
A vision for AI in Extremadura
The Junta's spokesperson, Juan Antonio González, stated that projects looking to invest in Extremadura and related to artificial intelligence will be declared of general interest. This declaration, as reported by "El País" (2023), signals the region's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth through AI. The focus will be on integrating AI technologies into critical sectors such as healthcare, education, employment, tourism, and agriculture, as indicated by "El País" (2023). These sectors are currently undergoing rapid transformation, with AI expected to play a crucial role in the coming years.
Regulatory security and job creation
The new regulation aims to provide security for companies and create employment opportunities for job seekers in the region. The strategy is expected to be approved within nine months of the decree's entry into force. A working group, composed of representatives from the Administration and private companies, will develop the project, ensuring alignment with national and European recommendations, primarily the Digital Rights Charter approved in Spain in July 2021, and the European Parliament and Council Regulation on Artificial Intelligence, according to "El País" (2023).
Incorporating AI into public administration
Besides attracting private investment, the Junta plans to incorporate AI technologies into public administration to improve efficiency in public services. The decree highlights objectives such as streamlining processes, reducing public spending, and benefiting public employees, as noted by "El País" (2023). While specific measures are not detailed, the move underscores a broader trend of governments worldwide seeking to leverage AI for improved governance.
Investing in education and training
The government also plans to increase investment in training programs to help citizens become familiar with AI technologies and include AI in training for the unemployed. González mentioned that the implementation of this tool will be budgeted in the upcoming General Budgets of Extremadura and will seek funding from the European Next Generation funds, as per "El País" (2023). These investments in education are crucial to ensure that the workforce is ready for the new roles and opportunities created by AI.
Ethical AI management
Echoing the laws of robotics and European regulations, the Junta's spokesperson emphasized the need for technology to serve humanity, not the other way around. Mechanisms will be implemented to avoid discriminatory biases and evaluate algorithm selection criteria, promoting ethical data management. As “El País” (2023) mentioned, the government is putting measures in place to avoid biases and evaluate algorithms.
Extremadura's commitment to responsible AI
Extremadura is taking a bold step forward by regulating AI to attract digital businesses and promote innovation. The region's commitment to ethical data management and investment in education and training highlights its vision for responsible AI development. As AI continues to shape industries and societies, Extremadura's regulatory approach may serve as a model for other regions looking to embrace the transformative power of AI, ensuring it is used for the benefit of all citizens. The region is setting itself apart by adopting a framework that aligns with the digital age and leverages the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence.
