Artificial intelligence is one of the most significant developments in recent technological history, with a wide range of potential applications. So far, however, the development has mainly taken place in research and business. The Civic Coding initiative aims to bring AI to the heart of society and to use and shape AI for the common good. Civic Coding also aims to strengthen alternative development and application models for AI as a complement to international trends in the AI industry. The initiative therefore specifically networks diverse societal groups and perspectives. Jointly with stakeholders from civil society, science and business, the initiative shapes the social, sustainable and participatory development and application of AI. For the successful social use of AI, the needs of all those directly and indirectly affected must be considered at the development stage. At the same time, the initiative also aims to strengthen the digital literacy of society so that everyone can use AI technologies in a self-determined, reflective and safe way.
We, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS), the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) and the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) have jointly launched the initiative “Civic Coding – innovation network AI for the common good”. As a lighthouse project of the Digital Strategy , Civic Coding is helping to shape Germany's digital social transformation.
With the Civic Coding initiative, we are joining forces in an open network. This way, the initiative will strengthen data and AI competences in civil society in the future and enable cross-departmental funding programmes and support measures. It will thus promote the social use of AI for the common good.