Uruguay: Recent Progress in Tech Policy

Uruguay

Uruguay has been actively working to establish a comprehensive framework for the development and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, with key initiatives aimed enhancing public services, improving government processes, and ensuring ethical deployment of AI technologies. Below are the main projects and strategic efforts that shape Uruguay’s approach to AI:

National AI Strategy (2020)

• Uruguay’s National AI Strategy aims to promote the responsible use of AI within the public sector, with the goal of enhancing public services and improving internal government processes.

• The strategy was created by a multidisciplinary team that included experts in technology, law, sociology, and medicine within the the Agency for the Development of the Electronic Government and Information Society. This collaborative approach ensures that the strategy is both technically sound and socially responsible.

• The strategy is inspired by international AI initiatives, particularly from Canada and Italy, which have led the way in promoting AI's use in government to enhance efficiency public service delivery.

• Key areas of focus in the strategy include:

  • Improving public sector processes: Using AI to streamline government operations and reduce administrative burdens

  • Better digital services: Utilizing AI to create more responsive and efficient services for citizens

    Transparency and accountability: Ensuring that AI systems are deployed responsibly and ethically, promoting trust and minimizing risks such as discrimination and bias.

Key Legislative Projects in Uruguay

1. Bill 160329: Digital Tagging of AI Systems (2023)

• Bill 160329 mandates the digital tagging of AI systems and applications that interact with users, create content, or develop new outputs. The bill requires that AI-driven systems be clearly identified or labeled whenever th are used in these contexts. The purpose of this digital tagging is to ensure transparency for users, helping them to understand when they are engaging with AI systems.

• The bill reflects Uruguay’s alignment with global trends, especially the EU efforts toward AI transparency and ethical deployment.

2. Law 20.212: Mandate for National AI Strategy (2023, pending)

• Law 20.212 mandates that AGESIC design a national AI strategy and submit it to Congress for further legislation. The law highlights Uruguay's commitment to creating a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI, one that ensures the technology is used responsibly while enabling innovation in the public sector.

• The law is still pending and will eventually provide a legislative foundation to ensure the effective application of the AI strategy and its integration into broader national governance.