For governments to work together to manage AI on an international level, they need to use common terms and definitions to act as a foundation for cooperation. Doing so allows for interoperability across jurisdictions, even with varying approaches to managing the technology.

The OECD definition of AI systems was revised in 2023 to align with the technology’s latest evolutions and act as a foundation upon which governments can legislate and regulate AI.

The OECD AI Principles guide AI actors in their efforts to develop trustworthy AI and provide policymakers with recommendations for effective AI policies and were revised in 2024 to stay abreast of rapid technological developments.

While AI provides tremendous benefits, it can also fuel bias and discrimination and present risks to privacy, safety, security and human autonomy. To develop safe, secure and trustworthy AI systems, there is a need to assess these impacts and manage risks.

The OECD informs policymakers and AI actors by providing tools and live data via its OECD.AI Policy Observatory and for example through the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct.

Initial evidence on AI’s potential for boosting productivity and growth suggests that using recent generative AI tools in the workplace can significantly improve performance in specific tasks (by about 20 to 40 percent, depending on the context). AI can also transform the way governments design and deliver public services to meet evolving societal needs. But the economy-wide, long-term effects are uncertain. 

Macroeconomic gains from AI depend on widespread adoption of the technology and its fast-evolving capabilities. Threats to market competition, inclusion and broader societal risks can also curtail the potential gains. 

As OECD countries prepare for an AI revolution, underscored by rapid advancements in generative AI and an increased availability of AI-skilled workers, the landscape of employment is poised for significant change.

To navigate this shift, it's critical to prioritise training and education to equip both current and future workers with the necessary skills, and to support displaced workers with adequate social protection. Additionally, safeguarding workers' rights in the face of AI integration and ensuring inclusive labour markets become paramount. Social dialogue will also be key to success in this new era.

Together, these actions will ensure that the AI revolution benefits all, transforming potential risks into opportunities for growth and innovation.

AI has the potential to personalise education, providing immediate feedback that helps students learn better, teachers teach better, and schools become more effective. AI can also help students to reason critically, providing explanations or evaluating contrasting arguments. But to offer improved educational outcomes, career opportunities and enhanced civic engagement for all, countries must address digital divides and prevent AI from amplifying bias or eroding data protection.  

As AI outcompetes humans in a growing range of skill areas, the OECD is developing a detailed and authoritative methodology for evaluating AI and robotics capabilities relative to humans, to guide policymakers as they adapt education and training.  As the world – and learning – become ever more digital, we’ll offer policymakers a set of opportunities, guidelines and guardrails about the effective and equitable use of AI in education.

The use of AI in research and healthcare offers significant opportunities to enhance patient outcomes, empower people with their health data, and streamline care processes. AI's ability to analyse large datasets can lead to more accurate diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and predictive health insights. However, this integration is not without risks. Privacy concerns, potential data quality issues in AI algorithms, and the need for robust digital infrastructures are pressing issues that policymakers must address.

To fully leverage AI's potential, co-ordinated policy efforts are essential to develop comprehensive regulations, protect patient data, and ensure equitable access to AI-driven healthcare innovations. A new OECD expert group on AI in health will address the advancement of AI in health in close co-operation with other international organisations such as the World Health Organization.