Revised Chinese AI regulations don't limit AI weaponry


The current spread of artificial intelligence in militaries is becoming a cause for concern for many. From the White House to the United Nations, there have been calls for AI regulations in weapons, mostly to no avail.

Despite lack of regulation on AI weapons, multiple countries have started to update their AI legislations. In a new development, a revised set of Chinese AI regulations detail the country's new rules for artificial intelligence. However, the regulations change nothing.

Chinese AI regulations change nothing

Reported by TheNextWeb, The People’s Republic of China has published its “position paper” on the subject. The paper explains the nation’s views on military AI regulation, and its position appears to be entirely centrist.

Most importantly, China’s AI paper doesn't impose any limits on “lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS)”. Not only does the paper not restrict the use of autonomous “killer robots”, but it also doesn't limit internal development of new AI weapons.

TNR explains that China’s position on autonomous weapons is danced around with “obscuring language”. With China being touted as being far more advanced in artificial intelligence than rival countries, it appears the country doesn't want to restrict itself.

The paper’s empty phrases don't really explain anything about the Chinese AI regulations. Instead, they discuss that other countries need to uphold AI values. However, the paper doesn't state whether or not China will be upholding those values. It says:

“In terms of law and ethics, countries need to uphold the common values of humanity, put people’s well-being front and center, follow the principle of AI for good, and observe national or regional ethical norms in the development, deployment and use of relevant weapon systems.”

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Why is China acting coy?

TNR reports that experts are claiming China is “talking about regulation out of fear”. Additionally, the country is expected to be developing new military technologies as fast as possible to keep up with rival world powers. For example, the United States and Russia.

With the United States dedicated to autonomous weaponry and robotics, China will also be dedicated to matching the US’ technology. Since the United Nations can't restrict the development of these weapons, more countries will be creating them.

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