In January 2020, Uruguay adopted its Artificial Intelligence Strategy for Digital Government (AISDG), developed by the Agency for Development of Electronic Government and Information Society (AGESIC). The strategy aims to promote responsible AI use in public administration through nine principles and four key pillars: AI governance in public administration, capacity development, use and application of AI, and digital citizenship and AI.
Uruguay has a robust data protection framework largely aligned with EU standards. The country has "adequate protection" status under EU data protection rules, with key laws including Act 18.331 on Personal Data Protection and Habeas Data. The Personal Data Regulatory and Control Unit (URCDP) serves as the supervisory authority.
While lacking specific algorithmic transparency regulations, Uruguay has taken steps to promote openness. The country ratified Convention 108+, which includes provisions on algorithmic transparency. The AISDG aims to establish standards for transparency in algorithm development and implementation, and the government published guidance on Algorithmic Impact Studies in 2020.
The government is pursuing AI projects in areas like education and healthcare, including developing a predictive model for educational disengagement and testing a predictive model for cardiovascular disease. However, these initiatives have raised some ethical concerns regarding data use and potential stigmatisation.
In 2020, Uruguay began developing a facial identification database for public safety, sparking privacy concerns from civil society groups. The system was approved as part of budget legislation, limiting public debate.
Uruguay ranks highly for human rights protections but faces some ongoing challenges. The country is rated "Free" by Freedom House with a score of 97/100 in 2022 and shows strong adherence to international human rights instruments. However, concerns persist about impunity for past human rights violations.
While not an OECD member, Uruguay has engaged in international AI initiatives. The country endorsed the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI and participates in regional efforts like the Digital Agenda for Latin America and the Caribbean.
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/