News item | 11-10-2023 | 15:06
The vision of generative AI is increasingly taking shape. The vision must be for the broadest possible social basis at local, national and European level.
That is why various meetings take place to gain as many insights and opinions as possible. For example, on topics such as the impact of generative AI on healthcare and ethics when using generative AI.
In September, the opportunities and risks of AI were discussed with the healthcare sector, the cabinet was updated on the impact of this technology and the first meeting took place. In addition, the various insights were tested against a sounding board group.
State Secretary Alexandra van Huffelen summarized it at the opening of the academic year of Tilburg University.
‘Generative AI has the potential to revolutionize countless areas. And I suspect it will fulfill that potential. But how do we use these opportunities in such a way that we continue to protect our public values? That we do not give an inch in the areas of democracy, privacy, self-determination, transparency and security. If we want technology to work for everyone, it must be values-driven. Innovation as an aspiration, but with our fundamental rights as strict conditions.’
Healthcare sector meetings
There are several sectors in which generative AI is expected to have a major impact. During sector meetings, experts discuss the opportunities and concerns surrounding AI. Scientists, policymakers, representatives from the business community and media will join us.
The sector meeting on generative AI in healthcare was organized together with the Dutch AI Coalition and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). Twenty-seven experts discussed the opportunities and threats that this new technology offers in healthcare. They then discussed what needs to be done to take advantage of these opportunities and limit the risks.
Participants discussed opportunities for scientific research, preventive medicine and improved communication with patients. The challenges in healthcare are great, and here too (generative) AI could offer solutions: in reducing administrative burdens, waiting lists and workload. So that the quality of care and job satisfaction for healthcare workers increases.
There are also concerns and risks. The technology must be reliable, privacy-friendly and easy to use for everyone. One of the most important conclusions is that a doctor can never be replaced by technology alone.
The starting point for the use of AI in healthcare: learning by doing, and above all, staying in conversation with each other. Investments in talent are needed to keep up with large companies and the countries around us. We must work transparently and protect people by developing safeguards in legislation and regulations to protect people. Consider the interests of everyone: not only hospitals and healthcare institutions, but also the interests of (GP) doctors and patients.
In addition to the conversation with specialists in the healthcare sector, the cabinet was also recently updated about generative AI. Minister Dijkgraaf said: ‘We are driving very fast, but through the fog. That makes it difficult to look ahead.
In her recent speech, State Secretary Van Huffelen spoke about the role of Europe in the regulation of (generative) AI, and the Netherlands as a possible guide country. ‘A clear need for regulation has arisen in Europe (…) Europe is leading the way, and the Netherlands is certainly leading the way, in creating and implementing these regulations.’
Citizens’ meeting in Wageningen
About 80 citizens gathered in the Wageningen library for an evening about generative AI. A lively discussion ensued. Representatives of the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations explained the vision process and answered questions from the audience. In breakout sessions, opportunities and concerns about generative AI were discussed, based on social challenges: climate, democracy, education and culture. There was also a session about ChatGPT, which was still unknown to a number of participants. More citizen meetings are planned this fall. Read into this article more about this meeting.
Sounding board group
The insights gained during the meetings are tested by a sounding board group. This consists of members with diverse social perspectives. Various topics were discussed during the meeting with the sounding board group. The goal is for the ultimate vision of generative AI to have the broadest possible social basis. To this end, we must connect with European, national and local parties. The sounding board group further discussed the content. There are concerns in the areas of sustainability, ethics, power, work and learning. The balance between opportunities and risks is important. The sounding board group will meet again in October 2023.
An update every month on Rijksoverheid.nl
Based on the vision process on generative AI, there will be an update every month on Rijksoverheid.nl about the developments and outcomes of the various meetings. Would you also like to stay informed, participate in the discussion and give your opinion about generative AI? Then click here and visit one citizens meeting in your neighborhood.