Global Perspectives on AI Governance and Regulation

TL;DR

• The India AI Impact Summit highlights the Global South's role in AI governance [1].
• A new US bill aims to enhance AI training resources for small businesses [22].
• The European Data Protection Board has adopted a work programme to ease GDPR compliance [8].

AI Governance and Policy Development

Facts

• The India AI Impact Summit emphasizes the role of the Global South in shaping AI governance [1].
• A new bill in the US mandates the development of AI training resources for small businesses [22].
• NIST has allocated over $3 million to support small businesses advancing AI technologies [46].

Analysis

• The increasing focus on the Global South in AI governance indicates a shift towards inclusive policymaking.
• Government funding initiatives, such as those from NIST, can significantly bolster AI adoption among small businesses.

Implications

• Policymakers should prioritize international collaboration to establish inclusive AI standards that reflect diverse perspectives.
• Supporting small businesses with targeted AI training can enhance their competitiveness in the digital economy.

EU Regulatory Developments

Facts

• The EDPB has adopted a work programme for 2026-2027 focused on easing GDPR compliance [8].
• New guidance has been issued to strengthen the role of Data Protection Officers in the EU [12].
• The EDPB and EDPS have raised concerns regarding the Digital Omnibus Regulation [36].

Analysis

• The EDPB's initiatives aim to simplify compliance processes, which can alleviate burdens on organizations.
• Strengthening Data Protection Officers' roles may enhance accountability and trust in data handling practices.

Implications

• Organizations must prepare for evolving compliance requirements by investing in proper training and resources.
• Policymakers should consider feedback from stakeholders to address concerns about the Digital Omnibus Regulation effectively.

Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructure

Facts

• The UK government has introduced a Telecoms Consumer Charter to prevent unexpected price hikes [33].
• A call for evidence has been issued regarding government support for investment in mobile networks [49].

Analysis

• The Telecoms Consumer Charter aims to improve consumer rights and transparency in telecommunications.
• Government support for mobile network investment is crucial for enhancing digital infrastructure across the UK.

Implications

• Policymakers should monitor the impact of the Telecoms Consumer Charter on consumer satisfaction and market competitiveness.
• Encouraging investment in mobile networks can drive economic growth and improve connectivity in underserved areas.

International Collaboration and Security

Facts

• The European Commission has presented an action plan to counter drone threats [39].
• New measures are being introduced to enhance security against drone-related risks [40].

Analysis

• The action plan reflects an increased recognition of security challenges posed by emerging technologies like drones.
• Collaborative measures among EU member states may lead to more effective responses to security threats.

Implications

• Policymakers should prioritize international cooperation to develop comprehensive strategies for drone security.
• Engaging stakeholders in the development of security measures can enhance their effectiveness and public acceptance.

Next Week Watchlist

• Monitor developments from the India AI Impact Summit for further insights on global AI governance.
• Keep an eye on the EU's response to the Digital Omnibus Regulation and its impact on compliance.

Sources

• [1] OECD AI Policy Observatory — The Global South can shape AI in practical terms: Why the India AI Impact Summit Matters (https://wp.oecd.ai/the-global-south-can-shape-ai-in-practical-terms-why-the-india-ai-impact-summit-matters/)
• [8] EDPB AI & Data Protection — Making GDPR compliance easier through new initiatives: a key focus of the EDPB work programme 2026-2027 (https://www.edpb.europa.eu/news/news/2026/making-gdpr-compliance-easier-through-new-initiatives-key-focus-edpb-work-programme_en)
• [22] Congress.gov — A bill to require the Secretary of Commerce to develop artificial intelligence training resources and toolkits for United States small businesses, and for other purposes. (https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3888)
• [33] Office for Artificial Intelligence — End to surprise phone and broadband bill hikes to help with cost of living (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/end-to-surprise-phone-and-broadband-bill-hikes-to-help-with-cost-of-living)
• [39] European Commission - Press Corner — Commission presents action plan to counter drone threats (https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_26_364)
• [40] European Commission - Press Corner — Factsheet: Action plan on drone security and counter-drone security (https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/fs_26_365)
• [46] NIST AI News — NIST Awards Over $3 Million to Small Businesses Advancing AI, Biotechnology, Semiconductors, Quantum and More (https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2026/02/nist-awards-over-3-million-small-businesses-advancing-ai-biotechnology)