Name in original language
Código de Ética de Inteligencia Artificial "IA" en la Superintendencia de Competencia Económica
Initiative overview
The Code of Ethics for Artificial Intelligence is a binding regulation issued by the Superintendency of Economic Competition (SCE), Ecuador’s government antitrust agency. This initiative addresses the risks posed by the rapid growth of AI in state administration, such as biased decision-making or the exposure of sensitive investigative data. Because the SCE handles large volumes of data to detect anticompetitive practices, it created this legal framework to ensure technology improves efficiency without compromising legal security or human rights.
The regulation's main objectives are to establish clear rules for the responsible, ethical, and safe use of AI within the institution. It ensures that AI serves only as a supportive tool for human staff rather than a replacement for professional judgment. Key principles include transparency and "privacy by design," which mandates the anonymization of data to protect the privacy of individuals and businesses.
Operationally, the regulation creates an AI Ethics Committee to oversee technology use and resolve conflicts. This committee, led by the Technical General Intendant, includes experts in information security and data protection. Staff are strictly prohibited from using AI for mass surveillance, profiling without objective criteria, or making automated decisions without human review. Violations of these rules trigger formal disciplinary investigations and potential sanctions.
The framework is designed to evolve alongside technological advances. It mandates continuous training for employees and requires the committee to update approved AI tools periodically. Furthermore, an "Annual AI Management Report" must be submitted to the agency's leadership every January to ensure the rules are adjusted based on the technology’s real-world impact
