Artificial Intelligence law at Kiribati
As of May 2025, Kiribati does not have a dedicated national law specifically regulating artificial intelligence (AI). However, the country is actively laying the groundwork for AI governance through legislative initiatives and strategic planning.
🇰🇮 Kiribati’s Approach to AI Regulation
National ICT Policy: Kiribati's National ICT Policy, established in 2011 and updated in 2019, serves as the foundational framework for the country's digital development. While it does not explicitly address AI, it emphasizes the importance of ICT infrastructure and governance, which are critical for AI integration .(aiasiapacific.org, Ministry of ICT)
Data Protection Legislation: In April 2025, Kiribati's parliament passed the first reading of a Data Protection Bill, marking a significant step towards safeguarding citizens' personal information in the digital realm. The bill is modeled after privacy laws in Australia and New Zealand and aims to protect personal data collected by government entities, particularly in sectors like health .(RNZ)
Cybercrime Act 2021: The Cybercrime Act criminalizes activities such as unauthorized access to computer systems, identity theft, and cyberstalking. It also established the Kiribati National Cybersecurity Agency to lead cybersecurity efforts and collaborate with international partners .(lawgratis.com)
International Engagement: Kiribati has participated in regional initiatives, such as the Pacific Digital Champions Training Program, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and governance. These engagements provide opportunities for Kiribati to learn from other nations' experiences in AI regulation and to contribute to regional discussions on digital governance .(aiasiapacific.org)
🔮 Future Outlook
While Kiribati does not yet have specific AI legislation, the ongoing development of data protection laws and participation in regional digital initiatives indicate a proactive approach to AI governance. As AI technologies continue to evolve, it is likely that Kiribati will develop more targeted policies and regulations to address the opportunities and challenges presented by these technologies.
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