From Principles to Practice: Ethical Anchoring in AI Governance

One year after the launch of Indonesia's AI Readiness Assessment Report , UNESCO reconvened the National Steering Committee to take a deeper look at ongoing efforts and initiatives for AI governance in the country. The Committee, which includes representatives from government, civil society organizations, academia, think tanks, the United Nations Country Team, and industry, worked closely with UNESCO to ensure a grounded and comprehensive approach in reviewing the report.

The discussions centered around three key themes: 1) Responsible Scaling of AI Infrastructure and Capabilities, and 2) Skills and Capabilities for Civil Service; and 3) National Labor Growth. These exchanges built upon last year's findings of the report.

Committee members with varying levels of expertise shared their perspectives on the importance of ethical anchoring in AI governance. From addressing bias and discrimination in AI systems, to ensuring the procurement of AI tools grounded in a human-centered approach and local contexts.

Moreover, they stressed the need for a forward-looking policy that ensures AI governance is both inclusive and practical. Given Indonesia's pioneering role in AI governance, with the National AI Roadmap and Ethical Guidelines currently being drafted, this meeting provided an essential platform to strengthen the regulatory processes. The Steering Committee further called for a stronger redress mechanisms and monitoring system, a key component of a trustworthy AI lifecycle that upholds accountability and public confidence.

This meeting marked a critical opportunity for UNESCO and Indonesia's AI community to collaborate more effectively. As AI continues to evolve rapidly, it is essential to develop policies and practices that balance innovation with ethical oversight. The Steering Committee's ongoing work will be key in shaping a future where AI not only enhances national growth but also serves the broader goals of social inclusion, fairness, and transparency. This collaboration will ensure that Indonesia remains a leader in ethical AI governance, setting a model for other nations to follow in the years to come.