New digital technologies present risks and opportunities for society. 43% of the Dutch population indicates that the introduction of new digital technology and innovations can be uncomfortable or frightening. In addition, not everyone is able to understand and utilise the new, advanced services. We are too dependent on digital technology developed by companies and countries that do not always share our public values. The government must intervene more promptly and effectively when new technologies have a major impact on public values.
Goals
- The Ethically Responsible Innovation Toolbox provides points of reference for citizens and businesses developing or using new digital technologies and assists authorities and government agencies in ethically responsible innovation. Companies, government, knowledge institutions, civic organisations and citizens work together in ELSA (it stands for Ethical, Legal and Societal Aspects) labs to develop responsible and people-oriented AI applications. These include a new research lab to develop, validate and implement AI solutions for good night-time care for people with severe multiple and intellectual disabilities.
- A Catshuis session is organised to gather input for a shared vision on generative AI. Expert sessions on immersive technology were also organised to gather input for policy development.
- Technology scans regarding immersive technology and generative AI were conducted in collaboration with Rathenau.
- A vision for generative AI is in the works and will be published in early 2024. It will include a mechanism for rapid response to new developments.
Results achieved by 2023
- The Ethically Responsible Innovation Toolbox provides points of reference for citizens and businesses developing or using new digital technologies and assists authorities and government agencies in ethically responsible innovation. Companies, government, knowledge institutions, civic organisations and citizens work together in ELSA labs to develop responsible and people-oriented AI applications. These include a new research lab to develop, validate and implement AI solutions for good night-time care for people with severe multiple and intellectual disabilities.
- A Catshuis session is organised to gather input for a shared vision on generative AI. Expert sessions on immersive technology were also organised to gather input for policy development.
- Technology scans regarding immersive technology and generative AI were conducted in collaboration with Rathenau.
- A vision for generative AI is in the works and will be published in early 2024. It will include a mechanism for rapid response to new developments.
What are our forthcoming actions?
To find out the goals we are setting for the upcoming year to prepare for new technology, click here.
Indicators
- There is a good and thorough understanding of the latest technological developments and the opportunities and risks of those developments.
- There are integrated and coherent policy agendas that are well-aligned interdepartmentally to guide specific technological developments.
- Policy agenda proposals regarding technologies are developed and implemented. We apply technologies in government when they are of use, and it can be done responsibly.
- New legislation (e.g., the AI Act) is put into effect, and new legislation (such as the Digital Services Act) is reviewed.
- Assessments are conducted to determine whether existing frameworks sufficiently safeguard rights in the case of new technological developments (e.g., neurotechnology).
- We are alert to the emergence of new technologies, conduct impact assessments, provide advice, and establish frameworks and regulations.
- Number of labs where the government and social actors cooperate on the development of new digital technology to solve social problems (target value: 3). Intensive contact with scientists and knowledge institutions.
