For an explanation of how to read this resource, refer to the guide at the end.
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 South Sudan1
- National Communication Act, 2012 (Act No. 24)2
- Right of Access to Information Act, 2013 (Act No. 65)3
- Regulations on Access to Information, 20214
- Cybercrimes and Computer Misuse Provisional Order 20215
- Consumer Protection Act, 20116
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, South Sudan has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of South Sudan includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.7 Article 22 guarantees the right to privacy (inviolability of a person’s privacy, and protection from interference with private life, family, home, or correspondence). Other protections include the rights to life and dignity (Article 11), equality and non-discrimination (Article 14), freedom of expression (Article 24), education (Article 29), and healthcare (Article 31). The provision of gainful employment and the promotion of education, are identified under the fundamental objectives and guiding principles of this Constitution (Articles 35 and 38). South Sudan 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 Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services (MICTPS)8
- National Communication Authority9
- South Sudan Information Commission10
- South Sudan Computer Incident Response Team (SS-CIRT)11
- South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS)12
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
A non-exhaustive list of professional or industry associations with a focus on AI in the country includes:
- South Sudan Robotics Club13
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.
