(KPL) Government officials from the education, technology, telecommunications, public security, and media sectors, alongside representatives of private companies gathered in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on Monday for a Responsible AI Workshop, aimed at fostering the knowledge and tools needed for the ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence (AI).

Participants were introduced to the AI Management Systems Standard (ISO/IEC 42001), the first international standard for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS).

The workshop highlighted how this framework helps organizations navigate AI’s risks and opportunities while ensuring responsible deployment.

In her opening remarks, Benita Summerville, Chargé d’Affaires of the Australian Embassy in Vientiane, emphasized the role of international standards in mitigating AI risks.

“The benefits of adopting AI include more efficient and accurate programmes, better data analysis, and evidence-based decision and improved service delivery for people and business. It can do some really great stuff. However, without appropriate governance mechanisms, AI also presents various risks, including to data privacy and security, social bias, and potential for misuse and spread of mis and disinformation,” she said.

ISO/IEC 42001, developed by experts from over 50 countries, addresses AI’s unique challenges, such as ethical considerations, transparency, and continuous learning. It provides a structured approach for organizations of all sizes and sectors to balance innovation with accountability.

“This standard offers a universal framework for adopting, deploying, and developing AI responsibly,” said Claire McFarland, Senior Manager for International, Advisory, and Project Delivery at Standards Australia.

ISO/IEC 42001 is the world’s first AI management system standard, providing valuable guidance for this rapidly changing field of technology. It addresses the unique challenges AI poses, such as ethical considerations, transparency, and continuous learning. For organizations, it sets out a structured way to manage risks and opportunities associated with AI, balancing innovation with governance.

“The internationally agreed AI Management System Standard provides a framework for adopting, deploying, and/or developing Artificial Intelligence in organisations of all sizes, in all sectors,” said Claire McFarland, Senior Manager, International, Advisory and Project Delivery at Standards Australia.

“The AIMSS provides guidance on establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an AI management system. It is applicable to organisations of all sizes, whether they provide AI-based products or services, or use them,” said Claire McFarland.

KPL