For an explanation of how to read this resource, please refer to the guide at the bottom.
AI Regulation
On 17 May 2024, Libya’s General Authority for Communications and Informatics announced the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Policy (the “AI Policy”).1
Definitions of AI
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, including the AI Policy, we have not verified the existence of any definitions of AI.
Core Principles
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, we have not verified the existence of any 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 Libya2
- 2040 Vision3
- Digital Transformation Strategy, launched in 20234
- National Higher Education and Scientific Research Strategy (2024 to 2034)5
- Law No. 22 of 2010 on Communications6
- Law No. 6 of 2022 concerning Electronic Transactions7
- Law No. 4 of 1990 on the National System of Information and Documentation8
- Law No. 5 of 2022 on Combating Cybercrime9
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, Libya has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Libya includes a general provision on equality (Article 6).10 It also includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights, such as Articles 12 and 13, which guarantee the right to privacy (inviolability of private life, and inviolability and confidentiality of correspondence, telephonic conversations, and other communications). Other protections include the rights to dignity (Article 7), work, education, and medical care (Article 8), and freedom of expression (Article 14). Libya 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 Communication and Informatics11
- General Authority for Communications and Information Technology (CIM)12
- Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MHESR)13
- Libyan Authority for Scientific Research14
- Ministry of Economy and Trade15
- National Information Security & Safety Authority (NISSA)16
- Libyan National Centre for Standardization and Metrology17
- National Council for Civil Liberties and Human Rights18
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
The Libyan government established an Artificial Intelligence Committee in August 2023. Created under the Ministry of Economy and Trade, the Committee is tasked with exploring how AI can improve Libya's economy and institutions.19
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.
