AI is reshaping public governance, offering innovative ways to enhance services and restore trust in institutions. The discussion at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh, moderated by Brandon Soloski of Meridian International, focused on using AI to streamline services like passport processing and tax systems, while also addressing privacy and data sovereignty concerns. Open-source AI was highlighted as a critical tool for democratising access and fostering innovation, particularly in developing nations.
Global regulatory frameworks were a central theme, with panellists underscoring the need for harmonisation to avoid fragmentation and ensure seamless interoperability across borders. Economist and policy analyst at the OECD, Lucia Russo, discussed regulatory approaches such as the EU AI Act, which aims to create a comprehensive legal framework. Brandon Soloski and Sarim Aziz from Meta pointed to the benefits of principle-based frameworks in other regions, which provide flexibility while maintaining oversight. Pellerin Matis, Vice President of Global Government Affairs at Oracle, emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships, which allow governments to leverage private sector expertise and startup innovation for effective AI implementation.
The panellists explored how AI can enhance public services, highlighting its role in healthcare, agriculture, and public safety. Examples included AI-driven tools that improve patient care and streamline food production. However, challenges like data protection, trust in AI systems, and the balance between innovation and regulation were also discussed. Anil Pura, an audience member from Nepal, contributed valuable perspectives on the need for education and transparency to foster public trust.
Transparency and education were recognised as fundamental for building trust in AI adoption. Panellists agreed that ensuring citizens understand how AI technologies work and how their data is protected is essential for encouraging adoption. They called for governments to work closely with civil society and academia to create awareness and promote responsible AI use.
The discussion concluded with a call to strengthen collaborations between governments, private companies, and startups. Brandon Soloski highlighted how partnerships could drive responsible AI innovation, while Pellerin Matis stressed the importance of ethical and regulatory considerations to guide development. The session ended on an optimistic note, with panellists agreeing on AI’s immense potential to improve government efficiency and enhance public trust.
All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.
