Libya’s National Artificial Intelligence Policy

The national policy for artificial intelligence (AI) in Libya serves as a comprehensive framework designed to guide the responsible adoption and integration of AI across various sectors in the country. The purpose of this policy is to leverage the transformative potential of AI to enhance economic and social development while addressing associated ethical and legal challenges. Recognising the rapid advancements in AI technologies and their profound implications, the policy aims to create a balanced approach that maximises benefits while mitigating risks.

This framework outlines Libya’s ambitions to adopt AI in a gradual and inclusive manner, ensuring it is used to foster national development and sustainability. The policy emphasises the importance of aligning AI adoption with global standards, while also incorporating ethical safeguards to prevent potential harm. The scope of the policy extends to all stakeholders, including government bodies, private entities, developers, users, and beneficiaries, ensuring a collaborative and comprehensive approach to managing AI technologies.

The policy serves as a roadmap to encourage the integration of AI into vital sectors, stimulate research and development, and build national capacities to support the country’s transition into a knowledge-based economy. By addressing legal, infrastructural, and ethical dimensions, the policy sets the foundation for Libya to become a key player in the global AI landscape.

Objectives of the policy

• To establish ethical principles and guidelines that promote responsible AI usage while minimising potential risks.
• To leverage technological advancements to drive economic and social growth in Libya.
• To foster capacity development among administrative bodies for the effective adoption of AI.
• To encourage investment in research and development across various AI domains.
• To promote the integration of AI into key sectors to improve efficiency and innovation.

The policy also underscores the importance of accountability, fairness, transparency, and privacy in AI applications, ensuring that the technology serves humanity’s best interests without compromising ethical standards.

Pillars of the policy

• Governance: Establishing a national body to oversee AI strategies, ethical frameworks, and collaborations. This body will ensure effective implementation and facilitate Libya’s representation in global AI forums.
• Regulatory frameworks: Addressing legal and ethical challenges by aligning AI practices with local and international laws. It includes drafting a national charter for AI ethics to uphold human rights and protect against technological misuse.
• Digital infrastructure: Developing robust digital infrastructure to support AI applications, including high-speed data networks, open government data policies, and secure mechanisms for data sharing.
• Research and development: Encouraging collaborations with international research institutions, creating local AI research hubs, and providing incentives to foster innovation and academic contributions.
• Capacity building and awareness: Launching national programs to educate citizens about AI’s potential and integrating AI-focused curricula at all levels of education, from primary schools to universities.

The policy also emphasises that all AI systems must adhere to principles of diversity, inclusivity, safety, and ethical transparency. Furthermore, a dedicated regulatory body will monitor AI systems to ensure compliance with these principles.