Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1511356
12 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 12 NOVEMBER 2023 OPINION OUR generation and those before us have witnessed the world transform be- fore our very eyes. Some of us may nos- talgically argue that things were better before, but the truth is, we cannot turn back time. Embracing progress is a nat- ural step in humanity's journey – it is about fulfilling our evolving needs as a species. We have reached this stage by explor- ing new ways of thinking and expanding the imaginative bounds of the human species. And this journey will contin- ue. When humans face challenges, they naturally seek solutions. Technological progress is a testament to our drive to innovate and overcome barriers, mak- ing today's activities more effective, easier, and better than yesterday's. The fears sur- rounding AI – whether about job security, data pri- vacy, or the digi- tal divide between generations – are genuine concerns experienced by peo- ple worldwide. In- stead of succumbing to these fears, it's our responsibility to confront them head-on. A practical step toward addressing these concerns is the establishment of an AI and Technology Parliamentary Com- mittee. This com- mittee would serve as a dedicated plat- form for informed discussions, expert consultations, and comprehensive research on AI and technology-related matters. Moreover, this committee would play a pivotal role in updating our ex- isting laws. Let's face it – our current legal framework is outdated and ill- equipped to handle the complexities of AI. We need legislation that not only safeguards our citizens' rights but also encourages innovation and growth. By creating a committee focused on these issues, we can ensure our laws are rel- evant, effective, and capable of adapt- ing to the ever-changing technological landscape. This committee would address crucial topics such as adapting education to nurture transferable skills, safeguard- ing intellectual property, ensuring em- ployment stability in a rapidly evolving job market, addressing online addiction concerns, and championing the right to establish boundaries in our digital lives. Such a committee would provide the platform needed to shape a progressive and inclusive technological landscape. Another critical aspect we cannot overlook is the digital divide. While the younger population may be tech-savvy, many of our seniors are not as comfort- able navigating the digital world. It is imperative that alternative options and support systems are in place to bridge this gap. The AI and Technology Par- liamentary Committee can lead initia- tives to provide training programmes and accessible tech support, ensuring everyone, regardless of age, can partic- ipate in the digital age. Furthermore, our efforts should ex- tend beyond na- tional borders. Technology knows no boundaries, and collaboration with the international community is es- sential. By actively engaging with oth- er countries, we can establish global standards and eth- ical guidelines for the development and deployment of AI. This collabora- tive approach will not only benefit our nation but also con- tribute to a harmonious global techno- logical ecosystem. The establishment of an AI and Tech- nology Parliamentary Committee is not just a smart move; it's a leap toward a future where innovation is balanced with responsibility. By acknowledging our fears, updating our laws, bridging the digital gap, and collaborating inter- nationally, we can ensure that AI and technology serve as tools for progress and prosperity. If society has changed around us, it is our duty as a legislative institution to take a step forward and update our- selves with the times. If we stop ad- vancing, we stagnate. It is time for our parliament to embrace this smart move and navigate the future together. AS we stand on the brink of a new era, defined by rapid digital transformation and urgent environmental concerns, my recent delegation visit to Silicon Valley as a representative of the European Parlia- ment's Committee for Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) has solidified my be- lief in the importance of a secure, digital and sustainable Europe, which stands to gain from trans-Atlantic cooperation. The potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to redefine our society is tremen- dous. Engaging with technological lead- ers such as Google, Meta, and NVIDIA in the San Francisco Bay Area allowed me to delve into the intricacies of ongo- ing developments as well as the effect of policy and legislation with a cross-border impact. During these discussions, I spoke about my digital work at the European Parliament, including on the recent his- torical AI Act, as well as my active com- mitment to ensure the prioritisation of ethical and human-centric AI develop- ment. Additionally, we spoke about the im- portance of safe, efficient and resilient digital infrastructure, networks and services against a gamut of increasing threats. Strengthening collaboration in the cybersecurity field is key. As one of the representatives of Palo Alto Net- works stated, cyber threats are increasing exponentially and it is only by cross-bor- der and collective cooperation, includ- ing between the industry itself and the public sector, that we can increase our resilience. In this regard, I spoke about my role as Rapporteur for ITRE where through an amendment to the Cyber Se- curity Act, we are aiming to address frag- mentation in the single market via a com- mon cybersecurity certification scheme for managed security services. The EU is working on a number of cy- bersecurity laws to strengthen endurance and resilience in the face of an increas- ingly complex geopolitical climate. My discussions have underlined the need for clear definitions and legal certainties. These are not merely technical details but the foundation for building a secure digital environment capable of protect- ing our citizens and businesses against cyber threats as well as other digital risks. In the transportation sector, where I have negotiated on behalf of the Social- ists changes to the Cyber Solidarity Act, we face a pressing reality. Cybersecurity is no longer a concept confined to the digital realm but extends to the physical safety of people. With intelligent trans- portation systems becoming the norm, securing in-vehicle data and control sys- tems is paramount. Any breach can have dire consequences, making our amend- ments focused on the cybersecurity of all transport subsectors all the more critical. Our visit also brought to light the trans- formative power of the metaverse – a concept that leaps beyond conventional collaborative platforms. It is here that the confluence of minds can occur without the barriers of physical distance, offering a disruptive transformation for indus- tries, including tourism, which tradi- tionally relies on the richness of human connection. At EU level the Commission has recently adopted its new strategy on Web 4.0 and virtual worlds, that surely is only the beginning of the policy road in this field. However, policy, legislation and infra- structure are only part of the solution. Another core piece of this puzzle is the workforce. Our dedication to capaci- ty-building when it comes to cybersecu- rity and digital skills is not just education- al; it is a strategic investment in Europe's digital sovereignty. Equipping individuals with the necessary skills also empowers businesses to secure their operations, preserve jobs, and bolster economies. As I reflect on the dialogues that took place during my visit to San Francisco, which also included discussions at Stan- ford University, it is clear that our focus must not solely be on immediate out- comes but also on the long-term impact and potential of these advances. Embrac- ing technological foresight will redefine our industries, the European way of life and the global reality. Moreover, we stand to gain from stronger cross-conti- nent cooperation, with a focus on joint research and innovation, which can help us address common challenges and op- portunities in the digital field and beyond. Rebekah Borg is a PN MP and spokesperson for lands and consumer rights Josianne Cutajar is a Labour MEP part of the Socialists and Democrats A smart move: The imperative of an AI and technology committee in parliament We need to emphasise EU cyberspace partnerships Rebekah Borg Josianne Cutajar socialistsanddemocrats.eu/ The establishment of an AI and Technology Parliamentary Committee is not just a smart move; it's a leap toward a future where innovation is balanced with responsibility