BC Greens call on Province to strike People’s Assembly on Artificial Intelligence
VICTORIA, B.C. – The BC Greens are calling on the Province to strike a People’s Assembly on artificial intelligence (AI), citing wide-ranging threats to people and the planet:
“AI is rapidly reshaping our world, with implications for public safety, labour, arts, climate, and affordability. A people’s assembly uses a collaborative approach to decision-marking, giving the public a voice in this multifaceted issue,” said Jeremy Valeriote, MLA for West Vancouver–Sea to Sky.
“We have existential questions about how we want this technology to shape our lives. Yet, the decisions about how it is regulated are being made by ministers behind closed doors. So far, the focus from all levels of government has been the economic opportunities and energy demands of the AI boom, and citizens have had no say on how AI will impact their lives.”
Over the past month, the BC Greens called on B.C.’s Minister of State for AI and New Technologies, Rick Glumac, to release his ministry’s service plan, and questioned his personal investments in AI—a potential conflict of interest. His answers have done little to assure us or the public on what his intentions are for this industry in B.C.
“The greatest threat to workers, and to humanity, is unchecked corporate greed. The rise of AI has only exacerbated that threat,” said leader of the BC Greens Emily Lowan.“While our government is twiddling its thumbs, we will continue to push for real regulation and putting democracy back in the hands of the 99%.”
The BC Greens believe a people’s assembly will be effective in engaging the public on this crucial topic. People’s assemblies bring together British Columbians of diverse backgrounds in a non-partisan forum to have a dialogue on complex issues and recommend solutions. Members of the assembly learn from experts over the course of their time together, free from partisanship.
“This government is simply not paying enough attention to the profound ethical, philosophical, and public safety considerations of this technology. The implications of AI should not just be thrust on us by billionaires solely focused on shareholders’ profits, “ Valeriote added.
“That’s why the government must strike a people’s assembly. The public deserves a direct role in shaping our AI future—how it is governed, where it is deployed, and how people are protected.”
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Media Contact
Ryan Hook
Press Secretary
BC Green Caucus
1 (250) 882 6187 | Ryan.Hook@leg.bc.ca