Amman, June 27 (Petra) – 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.
"In light of the rapid pace of technological advancements and digital transformation worldwide, digital sovereignty has become a key pillar of national security and sustainable development," Qaraleh said in a speech delivered on behalf of Senate President Faisal Fayez.
He stressed that possessing digital infrastructure and protecting national data is no longer an option, but a strategic necessity to ensure the independence of national decision-making and safeguard the interests of states and societies.
The Senator said enhanced Arab digital sovereignty requires 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.
"Our parliamentary vision stems from the belief that a secure and prosperous digital future starts with effective legislation, strong institutions, and active Arab partnerships that invest in both people and technology, establishing an independent, secure, and globally competitive Arab digital environment," he told the gathering.
Qaraleh reiterated Jordan's unwavering commitment to cooperating with the Arab Parliament "in a manner that serves our shared goals and endeavors to achieve security and stability for our human community." "This cooperation will enable us to harness modern technology, and an organized and ethical use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, to serve the causes of sustainable development, counter the forces of terrorism and extremism, and promote shared values among peoples," he said.
"Unfortunately, some terrorist entities and organizations have exploited these technologies, turning them from tools for serving humanity and international peace into instruments of killing, destruction, and chaos. They have used them to commit the most heinous crimes and war crimes, transgressing all human, ethical, and legal values," he said.
The Senator spoke of a fundamental need to raise awareness, review laws, and enhance parliamentary oversight to prevent the misuse of AI and modern technologies to undermine societies and violate privacy.
//Petra//SS
