Japan’s largest telecommunications company, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT), along with the country’s leading newspaper, Yomiuri Shimbun Group Holdings, have jointly issued a call for urgent legislation to regulate generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Their manifesto, to be released soon, emphasizes concerns over unchecked AI, warning of potential threats to democracy and social stability.

The proposal, echoing similar moves in the European Union, highlights growing apprehensions among American allies regarding the proliferation of AI technologies developed primarily by U.S.-based companies.

While acknowledging the potential productivity gains from generative AI, the manifesto expresses skepticism, citing instances where AI tools have already infringed upon human dignity by prioritizing attention-grabbing tactics over ethical considerations.

The document urges Japan to enact immediate measures, including laws safeguarding elections and national security against potential misuse of generative AI, the Wall Street Journal reported.

This call for regulation aligns with global efforts to address AI governance and safety concerns, with initiatives underway in various democratic nations, including the U.S., U.K., and Japan.

NTT and Yomiuri Shimbun, influential entities in Japanese policy and media landscapes, underscore the need for proactive regulation to mitigate risks associated with generative AI.

Their concerns stem from an ongoing examination of AI’s societal impacts, guided by researchers from Keio University.

Both companies, while recognizing the beneficial applications of generative AI, emphasize the importance of mitigating its potential for misuse, particularly in manipulating public opinion.

This stance reflects a broader discourse surrounding AI governance and the balance between technological innovation and societal well-being.

Written by B.C. Begley