Publications
In CIS countries, as in many other states worldwide, legal regulation of artificial intelligence and technologies using neural networks remains an unresolved issue at the national legislative level. Nonetheless, regulators recognize the need to fill this legal gap, as AI is developing at an extraordinary pace, leading to cases of its use for criminal purposes.
Currently, on the initiative of the Republic of Belarus, CIS countries are developing a model law on AI technologies that will provide legal recommendations for the legislators of CIS states. The final version of the law under development is expected to be presented in 2025.
AI Regulation in the CIS
Introduction
December 18, 2024
Mirza Chiragov
There is no definition of "artificial intelligence" in Belarusian legislation. The political course for the digital transformation of all spheres of life is outlined in the Social and Economic Development Program of the Republic of Belarus for 2021−2025, withthe State Program "Digital Development of Belarus" for 2021−2025 serving as the main implementation tool during this period. This program includes the phased development and implementation of several AI solutions, including intelligent data processing systems, intelligent systems and platforms within the "smart city" concept, production process management, tax calculation, public safety monitoring, and border security.
Republic of Belarus (RB)
AI regulation in Kazakhstan is fragmented. In 2020, the law "On Informatization" introduced the concept of an "intelligent robot" and added an article on the rights and obligations of the owner of an intelligent robot. Later, the law was updated to include the concept of a "national AI platform." The 2018 National Development Plan of Kazakhstan for 2025 stated that to foster the development of AI technologies, the regulatory framework would be improved. In July 2024, the government of Kazakhstan approved the "AI Development Concept for 2024−2029," reflecting the country’s aim to legally establish the status of AI. However, given current realities, this is not sufficient for comprehensive AI regulation.
Republic of Kazakhstan (RK)
Azerbaijan is aiming to regulate AI legally, as evidenced by the adoption in 2023 one of the state standards "Information Technology — Artificial Intelligence — Concepts and Terminology in AI."
Azerbaijan actively participates in regional and international discussions on AI ethics and regulatory frameworks. For example, since 2021, Azerbaijan has been involved in AI and information society initiatives within the Council of Europe, which include creating ethical guidelines and regulatory standards for AI. These engagements are expected to influence Azerbaijan’s future AI policies, aligning them with global best practices.
Republic of Azerbaijan (RA)
In 2021, the president issued a decree "On Measures to Create Conditions for Accelerated Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Technologies," highlighting the need to develop a comprehensive system for regulating the application and use of AI technologies, general guidelines and norms, as well as unified standards and rules for processing digital data. The decree also tasked the Ministry of Innovation with studying and adopting international AI standards as state standards for Uzbekistan.
Republic of Uzbekistan (RU)
The president of the RF adopted a "National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence" in 2019, which aims to position the country as a leader in AI by 2030. This strategy provides a framework for developing AI in various sectors, including healthcare, education, defense, and transportation. It focuses on creating favorable conditions for AI research and development, building AI infrastructure, and training specialists. One of the strategy’s main aims is "the creation of a comprehensive system of normative-legal regulation of public relations related to the development and use of artificial intelligence technologies, ensuring the safety of the use of such technologies". The strategy highlights the need for regulatory measures but does not establish specific laws.
Data protection laws, such as the Federal Law on Personal Data (No. 152-FZ), play a crucial role in AI regulation by setting rules on data collection, processing, and storage, which are essential for AI applications. Additionally, the "Sovereign Internet Law" (informal name of No. 90-FZ) indirectly impacts AI by setting stricter controls over data transfer and processing within Russian networks. These data security and localization requirements shape how AI systems can operate within the country.
Russian Federation (RF)
The Kyrgyz government made a project of a Digital Code in 2023. It is the first Digital Code in the world. The Digital Code of the Kyrgyz Republic introduces a comprehensive legal framework for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) systems, especially those deemed high-risk or critical. The Code establishes principles such as transparency, accountability, accuracy, and risk management that guide the design and application of AI systems. All AI systems must be developed and utilized with an emphasis on minimizing potential harm to public safety, individual rights, the environment, and national security.
The Code defines "high-risk" AI systems as those that could increase the likelihood of harm to protected rights. For these systems, additional controls are required, including risk management, transparency about operational principles, and adherence to safety standards. High-risk systems must be evaluated for safety at various stages: design, modification, and any unexpected operational changes that may impact their safety assessment.
However, it is not the final version of the Code, but the main principles and the course to regulation of the AI is already established in KR.
Kyrgyz Republic (KR)
Tajikistan does not yet have a dedicated AI regulatory framework. The regulation of AI remains largely unaddressed, with existing laws on data protection and cybersecurity providing some indirect controls. Future legislation on AI may be influenced by international cooperation and regional model laws like those from the CIS.
