Russian Government to Introduce Soft Regulation for Artificial Intelligence Market

© Правительство РФ

The Russian government has embarked on drafting a framework law to establish the regulatory foundations for artificial intelligence (AI). The approach is expected to be "flexible" - restrictions will primarily target areas with elevated risks for citizens, while the commercial sector will not face new requirements for now, according to the office of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko.

The legislation will focus on regulating AI applications in sensitive sectors such as healthcare, education, the judicial system, and public safety. In these areas, the potential consequences of AI errors are deemed particularly high. The authorities aim to mitigate risks for citizens and establish specific rules for the use of intelligent systems.

Among the proposed measures is the introduction of norms to prevent the criminal use of AI. The use of AI technologies in committing offenses is suggested to be treated as an aggravating circumstance. This approach, the government emphasizes, is primarily aimed at protecting public interests.

The document will also define key regulatory directions, including criteria for classifying AI solutions as "Russian" developments, the allocation of responsibility for system errors (including who is liable for algorithmic outcomes), requirements for labeling AI-generated content, and issues related to copyright and sector-specific features of technology implementation. Special attention will be given to developing a unified terminology in the field of AI.

Mandatory regulations for businesses in general are not planned, with the exception of critical infrastructure. The government stresses its intention to avoid excessive pressure on technological development and maintain opportunities for innovation.

Another goal of the government is to coordinate legislative efforts in this area. Currently, various initiatives related to AI are emerging in Russia, often fragmented or contradictory. The government intends to serve as a unified platform for reconciling the positions of government agencies, businesses, and professional associations and developing a coherent regulatory approach.