Artificial Intelligence law at Comoros
As of May 2025, the Union of the Comoros does not have a dedicated national law specifically addressing Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, the country has taken steps toward regulating data protection, which is a foundational aspect of AI governance.
🇰🇲 Data Protection Framework in the Comoros
The primary legislation governing data protection in the Comoros is Law No. 80-03 of 1980, which was originally enacted to safeguard privacy and regulate the use of personal data. This law has undergone several amendments to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and the growing importance of data privacy. Additionally, the Comoros has made commitments to international agreements that influence its data protection policies, notably the African Union’s Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection. By ratifying this convention, the Comoros has pledged to uphold principles that facilitate personal data security while promoting safeguards against misuse. (Generis Global Legal Services)
The National Commission for Data Protection (CNIL) is the principal authority responsible for implementing data protection regulations, overseeing data processing activities, and ensuring that the rights of individuals are upheld in accordance with the law. The CNIL has the authority to conduct audits on data processing entities, impose sanctions for non-compliance, and issue guidelines to help organizations understand their obligations under data protection law. This proactive approach not only helps safeguard personal data but also fosters a culture of compliance among data controllers and processors. (Generis Global Legal Services)
🌍 Regional Initiatives and AI Governance
While the Comoros does not have a national AI law, it is part of the broader African Union (AU) framework that influences AI governance across the continent. In July 2024, the AU adopted the Continental AI Strategy, which emphasizes the importance of establishing appropriate AI governance systems and regulations at regional and national levels. This strategy encourages AU member states to develop national AI strategies that align with regional objectives, focusing on areas such as data governance, ethical AI development, and cross-border data sharing. (Future of Privacy Forum)
✅ Summary
National AI Law: Currently, there is no dedicated national law addressing AI in the Comoros.
Data Protection Legislation: The Comoros has a foundational data protection law (Law No. 80-03 of 1980) and has ratified the AU’s Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection.(Generis Global Legal Services)
Regulatory Authority: The National Commission for Data Protection (CNIL) oversees data protection regulations and ensures compliance.(Generis Global Legal Services)
Regional Framework: The Comoros is part of the AU's Continental AI Strategy, which encourages the development of national AI strategies aligned with regional objectives.(Future of Privacy Forum)
While the Comoros has made strides in data protection, the absence of a dedicated AI law indicates an opportunity for the country to develop a comprehensive AI governance framework. Aligning with regional initiatives and strengthening data protection laws could provide a solid foundation for responsible AI development and deployment in the Comoros.
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