Amman: Senator Haya Qaraleh on Saturday called for devising modern legislation to regulate the digital space, protect citizens' privacy, support cybersecurity policies, promote investment in national data centers, and encourage innovation and scientific research in the artificial intelligence and digital technologies domain. He was addressing the 8th Conference of Arab Parliament Speakers, held under the theme "The Arab Parliamentary Vision for Enhancing Digital Sovereignty and Protecting National Privacy in the Era of Digital Transformation," at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo.
According to Jordan News Agency, Qaraleh emphasized the importance of digital sovereignty as a crucial element of national security and sustainable development amidst the rapid pace of technological advancements and digital transformation worldwide. In his speech, delivered on behalf of Senate President Faisal Fayez, he highlighted the strategic necessity of possessing digital infrastructure and protecting national data to ensure the independence of national decision-making and safeguard the interests of states and societies.
The Senator advocated for enhanced Arab digital sovereignty through joint Arab cooperation to streamline efforts, exchange expertise, and build an integrated digital system capable of confronting growing challenges, including cyberattacks, over-reliance on foreign platforms, and the risks of privacy breaches. Qaraleh outlined a parliamentary vision aimed at creating a secure and prosperous digital future through effective legislation, strong institutions, and active Arab partnerships that invest in both people and technology to establish an independent, secure, and globally competitive Arab digital environment.
Qaraleh reiterated Jordan's commitment to cooperating with the Arab Parliament to achieve shared goals and enhance security and stability for the human community. He underscored the importance of harnessing modern technology, as well as the organized and ethical use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, to serve sustainable development, counter terrorism and extremism, and promote shared values among peoples.
The Senator also raised concerns about the exploitation of technology by terrorist entities and organizations, which have turned these tools into instruments of destruction, chaos, and crime, violating human, ethical, and legal values. He stressed the need for increased awareness, legal review, and parliamentary oversight to prevent the misuse of AI and modern technologies that could undermine societies and violate privacy.