Statement from Former Japanese Minister of Economic Security Sanae Takaichi

Feb 16, 2025Shinzo Abe Initiative for Peace and Security, AI Action Summit, News

AI Action Summit Conference

Paris, February 10-11, 2025

Session: Government 24/7: How AI Might Best Transform Governance

Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished leaders, innovators, and policymakers,

It is a great honor to stand before you today at the AI Action Summit to discuss a concept that is not only groundbreaking but also essential to the evolution of governance in the 21st century: AIWS Government 24/7.

As the former Minister of Economic Security of Japan, I have witnessed firsthand how the intersection of technology and governance has reshaped our societies. While we rightfully celebrate the remarkable advancements in digital transformation, we must also recognize that modern governance is becoming increasingly complex. The world today does not merely demand efficient governments—it requires governance that is responsive, transparent, and capable of operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

AIWS Government 24/7 is not merely an aspiration; it is a global necessity. The challenges we face today—ranging from climate change to public health crises and economic disruptions—require governments that can respond in real time, provide seamless services, and anticipate the needs of their citizens. AIWS Government 24/7 presents a forward-looking model to meet these demands.

The Need for AIWS Government 24/7 and the Role of Security

In an increasingly interconnected and digitized world, traditional governance models are struggling to keep pace with the rapidly evolving expectations of citizens. Bureaucratic inefficiencies, delays in decision-making, and the inability to provide continuous public services are pressing challenges that must be addressed.

AIWS Government 24/7 offers a compelling solution:

  • It enables uninterrupted governance, ensuring that public services remain accessible at all times.
  • It integrates AI-driven decision-making, making governments faster, more intelligent, and more precise in their actions.
  • It fosters transparency and trust, strengthening the vital relationship between governments and their citizens.

However, as we move toward this new era of AI-driven governance, we must not overlook the fundamental importance of security. Just as digital transformation (DX) cannot be fully realized without security, the same applies to AI. AI and security are inseparable; advancing one without the other poses significant risks.

AI-driven governance introduces new vulnerabilities—such as cyber threats targeting AI systems, the risk of data manipulation, and challenges in establishing international digital standards. Thus, we must ensure that AI is developed and deployed within a robust security framework. Without comprehensive security measures, the very foundation of AI-powered governance could be compromised.

Japan’s Experience and Proposals for the Future

Japan has been actively working to enhance digital public infrastructure, strengthening governance through technology. Based on our experience, I would like to put forth three key proposals to accelerate the realization of AIWS Government 24/7 while ensuring security remains a top priority:

  1. Data as the Backbone of Governance

Governments must invest in secure, unified data systems that facilitate seamless integration across departments. Japan has made significant strides in cybersecurity and digital identity infrastructure, offering valuable lessons in building a resilient and trustworthy digital ecosystem.

  1. Human-Centered AI Design

While AI can optimize government processes, its design must always be human-centric. It must respect cultural diversity, protect individual privacy, and be guided by the voices of citizens. AI driven governance must serve the people, not replace them, ensuring that citizens remain at the heart of all decision-making.

  1. Global Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

The realization of AIWS Government 24/7 cannot be achieved in isolation. International collaboration is essential—countries must share best practices and work together to establish inclusive and fair digital governance frameworks. The Global Alliance for Digital Governance provides an ideal platform to foster cooperation and ensure that no country is left behind in the AI age.

A Vision for the Future: AI and Security as the Cornerstones of Governance

Ladies and gentlemen, the implementation of AIWS Government 24/7 is not simply about adopting new technology; it is about transforming governance itself. It is about building a future where governments can anticipate and respond to challenges in real time, where public trust is strengthened through transparency, and where technology serves humanity rather than controls it.

And at the foundation of this transformation lies “DX with Security”. Digital transformation is meaningless without security, and the same applies to AI. We cannot separate AI from security, nor can we afford to develop AI without integrating strong safeguards. The challenge before us is not just about technological advancement but about building a governance model that is resilient, inclusive, and secure. AIWS Government 24/7 is a vision that demands bold leadership, global cooperation, and unwavering commitment.

Let us work together to turn this vision into reality—not just for our governments, but for the progress and security of all humanity. The time to act is now.

Thank you.

Sanae TAKAICHI

February 11, 2025