Digital industry associations outline recommendations for the G7 Summit

Ahead of the G7 Summit to be held in Biarritz (France) on 24–26 August 2019, ten digital industry organisations have published a statement inviting G7 leaders to focus on two main issues: artificial intelligence (AI) for all and free data flows. When it comes to AI, the industry encourages governments to align their approaches and policies on ethical principles and guidelines and ensure the responsible and ethical design and deployment of AI systems. Other recommendations include support for the development of global AI standards, facilitating data use and access to open format and machine-readable data sets, and promoting cooperation on research and innovation and common programmes to support digital skills. The statement also urges governments to facilitate the free flow of data across borders and extend high-level privacy protection that ensures international interoperability, technology neutrality, transparency and responsible data handling practices. Enhancing ubiquitous cybersecurity and ensuring consumer protection through cooperation between national authorities are also encouraged. Moreover, the industry asks governments to ensure transparent and predictable regulation and promote competition and innovation while protecting intellectual property, including with respect to AI. The statement was signed by DIGITALEUROPE, the Information Technology Association of Canada, the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association, the World Information Technology and Services Alliance, techUK, and TECH IN France, among other associations.