In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), there are calls to reflect science and technology not merely as tools for economic growth but as fundamental rights of citizens and a matter of national security in the constitution.
According to a recent 'Science and Technology Policy Brief' published by the Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI) on July 18, the current constitution defines science and technology as a means for national economic development, which limits its relevance in the context of the AI and digital age. The report argues that science and technology should be redefined as core values directly linked to citizens' basic rights and national survival and security.
The report highlights that reliance on foreign core technologies can lead to economic losses and impact the nation's independent decision-making. As strategic technologies like AI, semiconductors, and biotechnology influence national competitiveness, they should be viewed as fundamental principles of governance rather than mere economic provisions.
The necessity for introducing new basic rights suitable for the AI era was particularly emphasized. The researchers suggested that issues such as personal data self-determination and algorithmic discrimination in the AI and data sectors, the right to access information and digital divide in the digital sector, and the protection of future generations in the climate and energy sectors should be examined at the constitutional level. They also noted that the public's right to access and enjoy the benefits of science and technology could be discussed as a basic right.
Concerns were raised that merely amending Article 127 of the current constitution would not adequately capture these changes. The report calls for comprehensive constitutional discussions that include defining science and technology as a national goal, establishing new basic rights, and expanding state responsibilities.
The researchers proposed that the participation of the science and technology community should be increased in the constitutional amendment discussions. They suggested establishing a permanent public discourse system involving the National Assembly, government, academia, research institutions, and civil society, and continuously discussing constitutional agendas to ensure the rights of future generations. They added that general constitutional issues such as budgetary law and decentralization could also impact research and development (R&D) budgets and science and technology governance, necessitating prior review.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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