Artificial intelligence already plays a growing role in medicine, helping clinicians with diagnoses. It can also assist in solving crimes and shaping traffic management. These ideas were discussed on the radio program Moscow Speaks, where Nikolay Komlev, the Executive Director of the Association of Computer and Information Technology Enterprises and the Chairman of the Digital Economy Council of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, shared his perspective.
In the medical field, Komlev explained that AI is not yet at the point where machines replace doctors entirely or perform surgical tasks. Instead, certain technologies are actively deployed to support medical decision-making. He noted that for decades, AI systems have contributed to difficult diagnostic work, such as identifying breast cancer or parsing complex blood and nerve network data. These AI-driven insights, trained on vast databases, have demonstrated accuracy that often complements clinical judgment and enhances patient care.
Nonetheless, Komlev emphasized the necessity of human oversight. A neural network can provide powerful analysis, but active human monitoring is essential to catch potential malfunctions and prevent erroneous conclusions. The message is clear: technology brings tangible benefits, but retaining human accountability is crucial to ensure safety and reliability.
Public sentiment in Russia mirrors a cautious optimism about AI. A study conducted by SberInsurance ahead of the international conference Journey to the World of Artificial Intelligence showed that a majority of Russians, about 61 percent, believe that ongoing AI development will positively influence daily life. This reflects a broader pattern seen in many countries, including Canada and the United States, where people see AI as a tool that can improve healthcare, transportation, and public services when guided by thoughtful policies and professional oversight.
Meanwhile, the reach of artificial intelligence continues to expand across regions. Reports indicate AI initiatives that cross borders, such as projects aimed at deciphering ancient manuscripts in Egypt, illustrating AI’s potential to unlock long-standing cultural and historical insights. These examples highlight AI’s versatility: from practical medical support to scholarly discovery and public sector applications. They also underscore the importance of governance, ethics, and transparent evaluation to ensure responsible use and equitable access for communities across North America and beyond. For policymakers and practitioners, the key takeaway is that AI should augment human expertise, not supplant it, and that robust safeguards help maximize benefits while minimizing risk. [Citation: Industry reports and expert statements]