- Eight new organizations commit to Canada’s Voluntary Code of Conduct on AI.
- The code emphasizes responsible development and management of advanced generative AI systems.
- Canada aims to establish common standards and safeguards for AI systems domestically and internationally.
- Government allocated $2.4 billion in Budget 2024 to enhance Canada’s AI capabilities.
- Minister Champagne and Mastercard Canada President Sasha Krstic highlight the importance of responsible AI practices.
Main AI News:
Recent strides in artificial intelligence (AI) are positively impacting society, from refining supply chain management to advancing healthcare and addressing environmental concerns. However, these advancements underscore the importance of ensuring the safe development and management of AI systems, especially advanced generative ones.
Today, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, revealed that an additional eight organizations have committed to supporting the creation of a robust, responsible AI ecosystem in Canada by signing the Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems. The new signatories include Alloprof, Kyndryl, Lenovo, Levio, MaRS Discovery District, Mastercard, Organisme d’autoréglementation du courtage immobilier du Québec (OACIQ), and Salesforce.
By endorsing this code, these entities pledge to integrate its principles into their operations concerning the development and management of advanced generative AI systems. They join the ranks of 22 other signatories dedicated to fostering responsible AI practices in Canada. Concurrently, Canada remains actively engaged in both domestic and international dialogues aimed at establishing common standards and protections for generative AI systems.
The code itself is formulated based on extensive input gathered from various stakeholders and consultations on the development of a Canadian code of practice for generative AI systems. A summary of the feedback received during these consultations has been published by the government.
Continuing its leadership in AI, the government has allocated $2.4 billion in Budget 2024 to bolster Canada’s AI capabilities. Initiatives include investments in computational capacity and infrastructure, expediting the adoption and deployment of responsible AI, and supporting workforce development through skills training.
“Artificial intelligence represents one of the most significant technological shifts of our time, and our government is dedicated to empowering Canadians and businesses with the necessary tools to excel in this digital age. By embracing the Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems, leading Canadian organizations are taking responsible steps towards ensuring the safety and trustworthiness of advanced generative AI systems, paving the way for a secure future of technological growth.” — The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“Generative AI, alongside traditional AI, presents remarkable opportunities to foster solutions that benefit all. However, for this innovation to be sustainable and inclusive, it must earn people’s trust. This begins with foundational practices that uphold individual rights and safeguard communities. At Mastercard, we uphold the highest standards of data and tech responsibility, and we view Canada’s voluntary generative AI code of conduct as a significant stride towards establishing a unified framework for responsible data-driven innovation.” — Sasha Krstic, President, Mastercard, Canada.
Conclusion:
Canada’s expansion of its voluntary AI code of conduct signifies a growing commitment from organizations towards ensuring responsible development and management of AI systems. This move not only enhances trust and safety in AI innovation but also sets a precedent for global standards in data-driven innovation. It highlights the increasing importance of ethical considerations and responsible practices in the rapidly evolving AI market.
