Uzbekistan moves to regulate AI and protect personal data

Draft law sets rules for ethical AI use, bans decisions based solely on automated systems.

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV)  — Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward regulating artificial intelligence (AI) with the passage of a draft law by the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the country’s lower house of parliament. 

The bill, approved in its first reading, outlines a comprehensive legal framework for the use of AI technologies in the country.

The draft law introduces Article 46-2 to the Code of Administrative Responsibility, which establishes penalties for the unlawful processing of personal data using AI technologies, as well as for the dissemination of such data through media platforms or the internet.

The legislation defines “artificial intelligence” and outlines the government’s policy priorities in the field.

It also sets out the responsibilities of the national regulatory authority and establishes general rules for using AI in the development of digital platforms and information systems.

One key requirement is the mandatory labeling of AI-generated content.

The law also prohibits the use of AI systems in ways that could violate fundamental rights, including the right to life, health, freedom, dignity, and privacy.

Crucially, the bill states that no decision affecting human rights and freedoms may be made solely on the basis of conclusions drawn by AI systems.

This clause is intended to prevent overreliance on automation in sensitive or high-stakes decisions.

Lawmakers noted that the draft law is designed to encourage responsible innovation while safeguarding civil liberties.

It aims to create a legal framework for integrating AI across various sectors while curbing the misuse of personal data.

By advancing this legislation, Uzbekistan positions itself among a growing number of countries seeking to regulate emerging technologies and ensure they serve the public good.