Key findings about AI from the 2024 G7 summit

On June 13th, 2024, global leaders gathered for the 50th G7 summit in Apulia, Italy. Many pressing subjects were discussed extensively, such as technology, responses to international affairs, helping developing and war-struck nations, and more.

Following its introduction during the Hiroshima summit last year, the attendees discussed AI in detail, focusing on aligning each country’s cooperation in using and administering AI technologies responsibly and effectively.

What is the G7 summit?

The G7 summit is a yearly gathering of leaders from seven of the world’s most advanced economies – the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Japan, and Italy. The general objective of the gathering is to discuss current issues, typically concerning global security, economic policies, peace and security, global health, development, and new technologies like AI.

In short, it serves as a forum for dialogue and cooperation among its attendees, aiming to address and solve global issues. Other political leaders and industry spokespeople are also often invited – for example, this year, the Pope was in attendance. Various leaders from the Middle East, South America, Africa, and Asia were also invited but did not attend.

What conclusions were made about AI?

At the summit, the attending leaders spent three days establishing common, agreeable grounds for deploying and governing AI systems. They affirmed the importance of coordinating their strategies to bridge the digital gap, ensuring everyone can access AI and reap its benefits.

Pope Francis offered some interesting perspectives on AI, warning leaders that humans cannot lose control of the technology. He also touched on how he believes robots should never autonomously make decisions concerning death, especially in the context of war.

While AI technology is exciting and marks a gigantic step forward for humanity, it is still one of the world’s top long-term risks due to its potential for adverse outcomes. That is why global leaders are discussing it, making decisions based on best practices for scientific advancement, sustainable development, safety, public health improvement, and accelerating the transition to green energy.

What changes can I expect to see?

There will likely be no immediate changes – government-level regulations must undergo a lengthy bureaucratic process to become official, which can take many years.

However, the discussions lead to the assumption that those who integrate AI into their processes will eventually be expected to handle their initiatives with care and responsibility. If G7 members want to implement cooperative and consistent safeguarding measures, they must coordinate their efforts and continue to work together.

One standard that might dictate these changes is ISO 42001, the new, internationally mandated standard for AI. The standard’s use at a national level sits well within the realm of possibility, as many ISO standards have been enforced at government level to help organisations meet specific guidelines.