Session Overview

The second session of the forum, titled “Governance of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies,” addressed the following key areas:

• Unified Arab Strategies for Artificial Intelligence.
• The Arab Charter for AI Ethics.
• Roadmap for the National Program for AI and Digital Transformation.

Moderator: Mr. Hamed Al-Houni

Panelists:

• Abdelkader Al-Zalitni – General Authority for Communications and Informatics.
• Ibrahim Jabara – Libyan Technology Foundation.
• Mohamed Shalabi – National Authority for Information Security and Safety.

Key Discussion Points

National Initiatives in Artificial Intelligence

On May 17, 2024, the Libyan General Authority for Communications and Informatics launched the National AI Policy to coincide with World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. This policy aims to foster the responsible and ethical adoption of AI across various state sectors.

Key highlights of the policy include:

• Establishing ethical frameworks, transparency standards, fairness, and data protection.
• Stimulating investment in research, development, and innovation.
• Building essential digital infrastructure, such as high-speed internet and open government data.
• Developing national capacity by integrating AI into educational curricula and training programs.

In August 2023, an AI Committee was established under the Ministry of Economy and Trade in Tripoli to develop AI models for improving institutional economic performance and enhancing cooperation between public and private technical sectors.

Furthermore, Libya contributed to the 8th meeting of the Arab AI Working Group in Cairo (November 2024), participating in the formulation of the Joint Arab Strategic Vision and the draft Arab Charter for AI Ethics. While Libya has issued several regulatory decisions in 2024 to organize cybersecurity services, it remains in the early stages of developing specialized AI legislation and currently lacks a comprehensive data protection law or an independent data protection authority.

Contributions of the Libyan Technology Foundation

As part of the National AI Program, the Foundation focuses on promoting the ethical and responsible use of technology. Its charter is based on the Arab Charter and UNESCO standards, aiming to provide a framework that serves the Libyan user while preventing ethical deviations and misuse.

AI Governance: Balancing Local and Global Needs

The session emphasized that while AI governance must be rooted in international principles, it must also account for the specific requirements of individual states. This balance between local regulation and global coordination is essential for protecting rights and maximizing the benefits of AI technologies.

The Role of Information Security in AI Governance

The National Authority for Information Security and Safety has launched its first AI assistant, “Nissa AI,” which aligns with the National Information Security Strategy.

Features of “Nissa AI”:

• Localized Application: It answers queries regarding national cybersecurity strategies, policies, and standards.
• Accuracy: Unlike open-source models, it is trained exclusively on the Authority’s specialized knowledge base, ensuring high precision in its responses regarding internal policies.
• Accessibility: Users can easily create accounts to interact with the model and provide feedback for continuous improvement.

Development Journey: The development process took approximately four months. Developers utilized open-source models—specifically Google’s Gemma 3—due to its sophisticated reasoning and verification capabilities. The model is currently in its launch phase and available for public testing.

Comparison: Unified Arab Strategy vs. Local Strategies

There is no conflict between the Unified Arab Strategy and local Libyan strategies. The Arab strategy acts as a supportive framework, while local policies are tailored to Libya’s religious, cultural, and social context. Currently, efforts are focused on implementation and the establishment of legal frameworks to address violations.

Global Benchmarking: The session noted that the European Union remains the only entity to have implemented strict AI laws (as of 2023), categorizing AI risks into four levels. Participants highlighted that 13% of recent cyberattacks have been AI-driven, though AI adoption has simultaneously improved institutional performance by up to 9%.

Licensing and Civil Society Perspectives

Legal Frameworks: There is a pressing need for a comprehensive Libyan AI law covering data protection, intellectual property, and security. This includes a clear licensing system for both developers and users to ensure compliance with local and international standards.

Civil Society Concerns: Civil society advocates for strict oversight and transparency, noting that some AI systems currently operate without the knowledge of decision-makers. They emphasize that AI is more complex and sensitive than traditional cybersecurity, requiring rigorous legal and ethical supervision.

Overcoming Technical and Legal Challenges in Libya

Despite existing bans on certain technologies, Libya can utilize AI through:

1. Flexible Legislation: Issuing laws that allow the import of essential technologies under strict oversight.
2. Direct Manufacturer Liaison: Coordinating with international producers through official channels to facilitate tech transfer or local alternatives.
3. NGO Support: Empowering civil society organizations to support the local AI industry.
4. International Cooperation: Leveraging agreements with international organizations to access technology legally and securely.

Session Recommendations

1. Draft a Comprehensive National AI Law: Covering personal data protection, intellectual property, and safety frameworks.
2. Establish Penal Regulations: Implementing clear sanctions for the irresponsible or unethical use of AI.
3. Create an Independent National AI Authority: To govern technology use, implement legislation, and monitor compliance.
4. Align with Global Principles: Developing strategies that meet international standards while respecting local contexts.
5. Upgrade Digital Infrastructure: Investing in high-speed networks and open data platforms.
6. Incentivize Innovation: Funding national projects and providing an electronic platform for academic AI licensing to reduce bureaucracy for researchers.
7. Strengthen Regional/International Partnerships: Collaborating with global tech manufacturers and participating in international standard-setting.
8. Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Involving the private sector and civil society in policy formulation.
9. Institutional Oversight: Enforcing legal and technical monitoring within organizations to ensure transparency and accountability.
10. Streamline Digital Licensing: Creating simplified electronic licensing systems, particularly for the academic and research sectors.