Why Elected Leaders, Not Tech Giants, Should Govern Emerging Tech

In a time when technology is rapidly advancing, it's easy to let the companies driving this innovation set their own rules. But should they? The short answer is no. Governance of new technologies should be in the hands of elected officials rather than the fastest moving companies. It's about public interest, not corporate agendas.

The Case for Public Oversight

Imagine a world where a handful of companies dictate terms for technologies that impact billions. It's a scenario that raises eyebrows, and for good reason. The farmer I spoke with put it simply: ' technology, it's about reach, not just profit.' Public governance ensures that technological advancements serve everyone, not just shareholders.

The story looks different from Nairobi. Here, technology is a tool for empowerment, not disruption. Smallholder farmers rely on innovations like affordable picking robots to scale up operations. The last thing they need is for these technologies to be controlled by distant executives with little understanding of local realities.

The Importance of Regulation

Why should readers care? Because the implications are far-reaching. The way technology is governed affects privacy, security, and even employment. Automation doesn't mean the same thing everywhere. Without proper oversight, the risks of harm escalate. We're talking about issues that impact daily lives, not abstract concepts.

Just look at recent data breaches and privacy scandals. They highlight the necessity for stringent regulations. Elected officials, who are accountable to the public, should be the ones crafting these rules. they've a mandate to consider the broader societal impact, something tech companies often overlook.

Who Should Lead the Charge?

It's important that governments take a proactive stance. But not every country has the same capacity to enforce these regulations. That's where international cooperation comes in. Global challenges require global solutions. It's high time for a coordinated effort to set standards that protect users worldwide.

So, what's the takeaway? Trusting tech companies to self-regulate is like letting the fox guard the henhouse. Elected leaders need to step up and take responsibility for governing new technologies. It's not just about the rules but about who benefits from them. The future depends on it.