For an explanation of how to read this resource, please refer to the guide at the bottom.
AI Regulation
There is no regulation specifically governing AI in the country.
Definitions of AI
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal definition of AI.
Core Principles
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal statement of core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country.
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of the DRC1
- National Strategic Development Plan 2019-20232
- National Digital Plan - Horizon 2025 (Plan National du Numérique - Horizon 2025) (PNN)3
- Telecommunications and ICT Law (Law No. 20/017 of 25 November 2020)4
- Digital Code (Ordinance-Law No. 23/010 of 13 March 2023), which includes protection of personal data5
- Decree of 17 August 2024, transferring data protection powers (among others) to ARPTIC (defined below)6
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, the DRC has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of the DRC includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.7 Article 31 guarantees the right to privacy (protection of private life and secrecy of correspondence, telecommunications, and other communications). Other protections include the rights to equality (Article 12), non-discrimination (Article 13), life (Article 16), freedom of expression (Article 23), and work, education, and health (Articles 36, 43, and 47, respectively). The DRC has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Affairs (Ministère des Postes, Télécommunications et Numérique)8
- Regulatory Authority for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information and Communication Technologies (Autorité de Régulation des Postes, des Télécommunications et des Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication) (ARPTIC)9
- Congolese Control Office (Office Congolais de Contrôle) (OCC)10
- National Human Rights Commission (CNDH)11
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of significant investments or multi-stakeholder initiatives on AI within the country.
Professional/Industry Associations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of professional or industry associations dedicated to AI in the country.
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
