NZ Joins UK’s Bletchley Declaration on AI Safety for Responsible AI Development

Minister Judith Collins Announces New Zealand's Role in Global AI Safety Efforts, National AI Strategy in the Works.

New Zealand has officially joined the UK's Bletchley Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety, Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, and for Digitising Government, Judith Collins, announced. The declaration is part of global efforts to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, with a focus on safety, trustworthiness, and people-centred development.

"AI, when used responsibly, has the potential to be a game changer for New Zealand, boosting productivity, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth," said Minister Collins. She highlighted the importance of AI being developed, deployed, and utilized in a way that prioritizes public safety and trust, as outlined in the Bletchley Declaration.

The Bletchley Declaration, led by the UK, is a global agreement recognizing the societal and economic potential of AI while emphasizing the need for rigorous safety standards. Collins stressed that "AI must be designed in a manner that is people-focused, ensuring that it can be trusted and used safely."

New Zealand’s Role in International AI Safety Efforts

New Zealand's commitment to responsible AI use is further reinforced by its earlier signing of the Seoul Ministerial Statement for Advancing AI Safety in May 2024. Additionally, the Government's approach to AI aligns with the OECD's AI Principles, which call for transparency, accountability, and safety in AI systems. "With these agreements, New Zealand is playing an active role on the international stage, ensuring that AI development meets critical safety standards," Collins said.

National AI Strategy and Public Consultation in 2024

The New Zealand Government is also preparing to engage with the public on a National AI Strategy in 2024. This strategy will explore ways to encourage the responsible use of AI to deliver better services and improve outcomes for New Zealanders across various sectors. "Public consultation will ensure that our approach to AI reflects the needs and expectations of all New Zealanders," Collins noted.

The strategy will build on work already underway by key government agencies. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has developed an initial cross-portfolio focused on necessary policy changes to address AI's opportunities and challenges. Meanwhile, the Department of Internal Affairs' Government Chief Digital Officer is leading efforts to support safe AI use within public sector agencies, aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery.

AI for Economic Growth and Innovation

Minister Collins emphasized that the responsible use of AI is crucial for driving productivity and innovation, with the potential to significantly contribute to New Zealand's economic development. "We are confident that our current work, alongside these global initiatives, will deliver a coherent, responsible approach to AI in New Zealand. This will help grow our economy and improve the quality of life for all New Zealanders," she said.

New Zealand's involvement in international AI agreements such as the Bletchley Declaration showcases its commitment to not only embracing AI’s potential but also ensuring that its development is aligned with global safety standards, benefiting society as a whole.