Iceland’s AI Strategy

Iceland has developed a comprehensive AI strategy that aims to harness the benefits of AI for the country’s economic and social development while prioritising ethical and responsible AI implementation:

1. Promoting the Benefit of AI for All: The Icelandic government’s AI policy emphasises that AI should be developed and used for the benefit of everyone in society. It outlines a framework for evaluating the ethical and moral implications of AI-driven decisions.
2. Supporting Digitization and Competitiveness: To ensure the competitiveness of Iceland’s private sector, the policy suggests methods to support and incentivise increased digitisation and adoption of AI technologies. This is seen as a way to enable solutions to complex problems that were previously uneconomical to solve.
3. Investing in AI Education and Expertise: The third pillar of Iceland’s AI strategy focuses on ensuring a future of continuous AI education, building local expertise, and creating opportunities to adapt AI technologies to Iceland’s industrial needs.
4. Commitment to Responsible and Ethical AI: Iceland acknowledges the importance of advocating for ethical AI development that adheres to human rights, values privacy, and encourages transparency and accountability. This is demonstrated through initiatives like the “Elements of AI” online course sponsored by the government to strengthen AI knowledge among the Icelandic people.
5. International Cooperation and Collaboration: Iceland is actively participating in AI regulation and standards discussions, and is engaged in international initiatives such as the Nordic-Baltic cooperation and projects within the Nordic Council of Ministers to promote cross-border digital services and interoperability.
6. Investing in Digital Infrastructure: The government has designated significant funding to expand Iceland’s digital infrastructure and services, including the development of cloud computing capabilities, to enhance public services and boost the country’s competitiveness.

Overall, Iceland’s AI strategy reflects a comprehensive and forward-looking approach that aims to harness the potential of AI while prioritising ethical considerations, international cooperation, and the development of local expertise and digital capabilities.