Artificial Intelligence law at Palau
As of May 2025, Palau does not have a national law or comprehensive regulatory framework specifically addressing artificial intelligence (AI). The country is considered to be in the early stages of AI development, with efforts primarily focused on foundational digital infrastructure and capacity building.
🇵🇼 Palau’s AI Landscape
Palau is part of the broader Pacific Islands region, where AI adoption and governance are still emerging. According to a report by the Montreal AI Ethics Institute, while AI has transformative potential for addressing unique challenges in the Pacific Islands, such as climate vulnerability, limited resources, and economic constraints, there is currently no active AI strategy in the 16 Pacific Island countries, including Palau. AI readiness remains weak, but all recognize AI’s potential importance, with steps taken to initiate projects ranging from digital payment systems to medical record software. The report emphasizes the need for tailored AI strategies, regulatory frameworks, and ICT infrastructure to foster sustainable and appropriate AI development in the region. (Montreal AI Ethics Institute)
🧠 Capacity Building and Training Initiatives
While national legislation is lacking, there are initiatives aimed at building AI expertise within Palau. For instance, Unichrone offers an AI Expert Certification course in Palau, targeting professionals such as service engineers, program managers, business strategists, IT consultants, and web developers. The course covers topics like ethical and sustainable human and artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence and robotics, applying the benefits of AI, building a machine learning toolbox, and the management, roles, and responsibilities of humans and machines. Upon completing the 3-day training program and passing a 40-question multiple-choice exam, participants receive a lifetime-valid AI Expert Certificate. (Unichrone)
🌐 Regional and International Engagement
Palau is part of the Pacific Islands region, where AI adoption and governance are still emerging. The region faces challenges such as geographic isolation, vulnerability to natural disasters, climate change, labor shortages, and the need to preserve cultural heritage. AI offers potential solutions to these challenges, including improved disaster forecasting and response, enhanced healthcare and education delivery, optimized resource management, and support for cultural preservation. However, AI readiness remains weak across the region, with limited active AI strategies and governance frameworks. The Montreal AI Ethics Institute report emphasizes the need for tailored AI strategies, regulatory frameworks, and ICT infrastructure to foster sustainable and appropriate AI development in the Pacific Islands. (Montreal AI Ethics Institute)
🔍 Summary
National AI Legislation: Palau does not have specific AI laws or a comprehensive regulatory framework in place.
Capacity Building: Initiatives like the AI Expert Certification course aim to develop local expertise in AI.(Unichrone)
Regional Context: Palau is part of a region where AI adoption is in its early stages, with efforts focused on foundational infrastructure and capacity building.(Montreal AI Ethics Institute)
International Engagement: The country is involved in broader regional discussions on AI adoption and governance.
In conclusion, while Palau is in the early stages of AI development, ongoing efforts in capacity building and regional collaboration lay the groundwork for future AI governance and adoption.
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