In February 2019, Portugal released its national AI strategy, "AI Portugal 2030," aiming to promote research, innovation, and application of AI in both public and private sectors. The strategy focuses on economic growth, scientific excellence, and human development, with an emphasis on increasing qualifications and promoting inclusion.
The strategy features a human-centered approach, stating that AI should improve quality of services and efficiency while guaranteeing fairness, wellbeing, and quality of life. It calls for strong ethical guidelines to protect fundamental rights and core values.
As an EU member state, Portugal is subject to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The country has also enacted its own Personal Data Protection Act to implement the GDPR. Portugal's data protection authority, the National Commission for Data Protection (CNPD), actively enforces these regulations.
The CNPD has been proactive in addressing AI-related privacy concerns. For example, it issued guidance for the use of technologies supporting distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting risks to privacy and non-discrimination.
Portugal's data protection framework provides citizens with rights regarding automated decision-making, including access to information about the factors and logic of algorithms. The country's AI strategy emphasises the need for explainable AI systems and promotes transparency in algorithmic decision-making.
In 2021, Portugal adopted the Charter of Human Rights in the Digital Age, which establishes that AI must be guided by respect for fundamental rights and ensure a fair balance between explainability, security, transparency, and accountability.
Portugal has developed guidelines for implementing AI solutions in public administration, emphasising ethical, transparent, and responsible use. The guidelines address themes of inclusion, equality, sustainable development, and well-being, while also tackling potential harmful effects associated with AI systems.
The country has endorsed the OECD AI Principles and the UNESCO Recommendation on AI Ethics. Portugal has also supported international efforts to address the challenges posed by autonomous weapons systems.
Freedom House rates Portugal as "free," with a score of 95/100, noting that it is a stable parliamentary democracy where civil liberties are generally protected.
This country report is our interpretation and summary of the "CAIDP Artificial Intelligence & Democratic Values Index 2023". The full report can be found here - https://www.caidp.org/reports/aidv-2023/