G7 ministers warn of impact of artificial intelligence on cultural sector

ROME, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) — The Group of Seven (G7) culture ministers’ meeting that concluded Saturday in Naples, Italy, highlighted not only the opportunities but also the serious threats that artificial intelligence (AI) poses to the cultural sector.

According to a declaration issued by G7 culture ministers during a three-day meeting, artificial intelligence “is increasingly permeating value chains in cultural and creative sectors and industries, impacting the working conditions and livelihoods of cultural professionals and the sustainability of the vibrant and vital cultural ecosystem.”

The leaders agreed to work together to address the ethical, legal, economic and social implications of generative AI and AI-based tools for cultural and creative industries.

The leaders also called for “identification and authentication, where technically feasible, of cultural content generated, modified or altered in whole or in part by AI systems.”

Focusing on the challenges posed by AI was one of the main areas of focus during Italy’s presidency of the G7 in 2024.

According to Italian news outlet Rai, a protest against the G7 cultural meeting took place in the center of Naples on Saturday morning. About fifty demonstrators marched, rolling out a red carpet as a symbolic critique of the “political show” taking place.