Governments worldwide are racing to develop, implement, and regulate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
In the past year, the European Union established the first comprehensive set of regulations for AI, while the United States leaders issued executive orders regarding AI safety standards. Switzerland, a major player in global AI policy, is also making significant progress in understanding and regulating its AI landscape.
Switzerland, known for its progressive approach to technology, including blockchain and cryptocurrency, is home to ETH Zurich, a leading AI research institution. Despite not being part of the EU, Switzerland is taking its own unique approach to AI regulation.
To gain insight into Switzerland’s stance on AI, Cointelegraph interviewed Ayisha Piotti, head of Switzerland’s Annual AI Policy Summit, and Alexander Brunner, an advisor to AI, blockchain, and Web3 companies in Switzerland.
With its stable democracy and reputation as an innovation hub, Switzerland has become a tech-savvy nation. Piotti credits this to the country’s direct democracy, exceptional academic institutions, and culture of inclusiveness and transparent dialogue, which have facilitated the integration of AI in the business sector.
Brunner highlights Switzerland’s AI research capabilities and ETH Zurich’s esteemed reputation in the field. The country’s tech-neutral approach to AI governance, influenced by its neutrality and diplomatic stance, emphasizes international collaboration and a focus on updating existing laws rather than creating new, technology-specific regulations.
Despite not being an EU member, Switzerland plays an active role in shaping global AI policy, leveraging its tradition of collaboration with international organizations. By adopting a pragmatic and tech-neutral approach to AI regulation, Switzerland continues to lead the way in AI innovation while influencing global AI policy significantly.