There is no doubt that artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly important role in various sectors, which has, in turn, encouraged the creation of AI commissions all over the world.
The Turkish parliament will establish a research committee dedicated to AI in the next legislative session. The decision reflects Turkey’s commitment to remain competitive in the global AI landscape while addressing ethical and security concerns associated with these rapidly evolving technologies.
Growing role of AI in Türkiye necessitates legislative oversight
There is an urgent need for a thorough analysis of the impact of AI, given its influence on everything from the labor market to national security. The AI committee will consist of representatives from all political parties, which will ensure a balanced approach to AI policy. “We need to discuss AI more deeply,” said Huseyin Yayman, chairman of the parliamentary Digital Platforms Committee and AKP Hatay MP. He confirmed that efforts are underway to establish the committee in the upcoming legislative session.
The AI Commission will focus primarily on assessing the reliability, transparency and compliance of AI programs with personal data protection standards. In addition, the Commission will examine whether AI technologies are used ethically, particularly in critical areas such as security, justice and healthcare. The Commission will invite bureaucrats, experts and representatives of AI companies to provide information and views during its work.
Turkey plans educational, technological advances with AI commission
Turkey plans to introduce new AI-focused educational programs at the secondary level and expand AI-related courses at universities. The government also wants to increase state-funded scholarships for AI studies abroad, creating a new generation of AI experts.
In addition to educational initiatives, the AI Commission will explore mechanisms to incentivize global technology companies to conduct AI research and development (R&D) in Turkey. Plans include the establishment of an “AI Turkey Portal” and an AI-backed “central public data space” using data from public institutions. These measures aim to position Turkey as a leader in AI development and innovation.
AI Commission to Ensure Ethical and Safe Use of AI in Türkiye
The establishment of the Turkish AI Commission follows the recent introduction of the AI law proposal to the Turkish Parliament in June 2024.
This proposal aims to create a legal framework that ensures that AI technologies are used safely, ethically and fairly in Turkey. The bill sets guidelines for risk management, compliance audits and personal data protection, with significant penalties for entities that violate these regulations.
The proposed AI Act emphasizes a three-stage risk assessment process for AI systems, particularly in high-risk areas such as autonomous vehicles, medical diagnostics, and justice systems. It also includes provisions for regular audits and monitoring of AI systems, ensuring continuous oversight to minimize risks. The Act introduces sanctions, including heavy fines, for non-compliance with these regulations.
Turkey aligns with global AI trends and innovates by learning from Brazil
Turkey’s efforts to regulate AI are part of a broader global trend. In March 2024, the European Parliament passed a groundbreaking AI law that sets strict rules on the use of AI, particularly in biometric identification and other high-risk applications. This law has influenced global AI governance, and Turkey’s actions align with these international standards.
In a similar example from Brazil, a city council member in Porto Alegre used AI to draft a law to combat water meter theft. The AI-generated draft was widely accepted with minimal changes, highlighting the potential of AI in legislative processes. This example illustrates the growing role of AI in governance and the various ways countries are experimenting with integrating AI into their legislative frameworks.
By establishing its own AI regulatory framework and research commission, Turkey aims to align with international standards while addressing its unique challenges and opportunities in AI development.
