AI ethics: challenges and directions

NDO - The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) brings many benefits to society, but it also poses an urgent requirement: AI must be applied in a way that is consistent with human ethical standards, avoiding negative impacts on individuals and communities.

Experts liken AI to "machines" created by technology engineers, whose behavior mimics humans and is increasingly approaching true intelligence.

If AI is not designed and controlled ethically, society could face many negative consequences.

AI can lead to discrimination based on gender and ethnicity if developed using biased data. AI can replace many jobs, posing a significant challenge to the labor market. People with disabilities, those with limited technological skills, and ethnic minorities need support to avoid being left behind in accessing AI-integrated services.

The development of AI will also pose certain challenges to the environment and resources. Setting up and maintaining data centers, cloud computing infrastructure, and supercomputers requires enormous amounts of electricity and water, as well as significant land for housing the equipment.

As AI enters critical fields like healthcare , what will accountability be like if errors occur in diagnosis or treatment? The security of patient information in particular, the protection of personal data in general, and ensuring data accuracy are all issues of particular concern…

The aforementioned risks pose not only a threat to Vietnam but also to the entire globe. Therefore, the development and application of AI need to be carefully considered, accompanied by appropriate control and guidance mechanisms.

AI ethics requires individuals and organizations involved in AI development to be responsible for designing, operating, and exploiting this "machine" in a transparent, fair, and safe manner for users and society. At the same time, AI ethics also emphasizes the role of the global community and nations in addressing the negative impacts of AI on life.

The development of AI poses certain challenges to the environment and resources. (Illustrative image)

The Party and State of Vietnam have identified the core purpose of digital transformation as serving the people, with people at the center. Therefore, in addition to promoting and developing it, we have focused on minimizing unwanted impacts on the people during the digital transformation process.

The National Assembly has requested research into policies to support those affected by the Fourth Industrial Revolution during the revision of the Employment Law.

We have enacted the Data Law in 2024, are currently developing the Personal Data Protection Law, and amending the Cybersecurity Law... to contribute to controlling risks from AI.

Agencies and organizations within the political system are researching various solutions to help citizens access smart administrative services more easily. The operational model of the Hanoi City Public Administrative Service Center is one example…

However, the major challenge is how to balance fostering innovation with monitoring ethical compliance in AI. Too much control can stifle innovation, but too much lax control can easily lead to the negative consequences already outlined.

Furthermore, implementing multiple science and technology development strategies and programs simultaneously requires careful planning and balancing, especially when resources are limited.

The challenge lies in balancing the promotion of innovation with the monitoring of ethical compliance in AI. (Illustrative image)

In this context, the proactive role of professional associations, businesses, research institutes, social organizations, etc., in collaborating with the Government to guide the responsible development of AI is crucial.

Recently, on March 22, 2025, the National Data Association was launched, aiming to build a robust data ecosystem, contributing to the promotion of digital economic development and increasing the value of data in the national economy.

Previously, the Vietnam Software and Information Technology Services Association (VINASA) established the Artificial Intelligence Ethics Committee. This committee is conducting research to advise relevant authorities on developing a code of ethical conduct for AI development companies. Simultaneously, the committee proposes building a standardized dataset, requiring foreign companies developing AI in Vietnam to adhere to certain criteria.

VINASA's model should be replicated and encouraged, because clearly, AI ethics is not just a matter for regulatory agencies, but requires the collective effort of the entire society.

In the long term, Vietnam needs to consider developing a responsible AI development strategy within the overall national strategy for artificial intelligence development, ensuring full compliance with the values ​​of fairness, inclusiveness, transparency, security, and accountability.

More importantly, compliance with the law is a mandatory requirement, demanding that every individual and organization have a deep understanding in both thought and action when developing and applying AI.

The legal system needs further improvement to clearly define legal responsibilities, establish mechanisms for handling violations, and protect the legitimate rights of stakeholders in the digital environment.

International experiences also serve as an important basis for Vietnam to refer to, thereby building a suitable AI governance model. A complete legal system and an effective monitoring mechanism will help control risks and prevent the misuse of technology without hindering innovation. Only then will AI truly become a tool to serve humanity and promote social progress.

Source: https://nhandan.vn/dao-duc-ai-thach-thuc-and-huong-di-post873031.html