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Aziz Soltobaev

Aziz Soltobaev is multifacted professional at the intersection of technology, policy and artificial intelligence. With a rich background on digital policy and research, Aziz has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of advanced technologies, contributing significantly to various initiatives aimed at shaping responsible AI governance and deployment.

As a Fellow of the Stimson Center and the Microsoft Responsible AI Program, Aziz has delved deep into the complexities of AI ethics, governance, and regulation. The Fellowship Program examined AI applications and evaluate their impacts in developing countries. Together with other fellows, the program seeked to understand how AI-related harms and benefits may manifest themselves in various social, cultural, economic and environmental contexts, and identify technological as well as regulatory solutions that might help mitigate risks and maximize opportunities (2023-2024).

Aziz had successfully passed AI Policy fundamental certification program organized by the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy (USA). The certification program is a semester-long AI policy and regulation training, provided to AI policy practitioners, policymakers, lawyers, academics and civil society members. The participants learn about AI policy research, analysis, and main AI policy frameworks around the world (OECD, G20, UNESCO, EU AIA, Blueprint for AI Bill of Rights, Council of Europe, African Resolution on Human Rights, etc). The certification program is an outgrowth of the work of the Research Group, and includes requirements for research, writing, and policy analysis. Receipt of the CAIDP AI Policy Certification requires completion of a detailed multi-part test. The subjects are: AI History, AI Issues and Institutions,  AI Regulation, and Research Methods. Aziz obtained Certificate with distinction and signed Statement of Professional Ethics for AI Policy.

As a fellow of the Atlantic Council Artificial Intelligence Connect Program, Aziz had a privilege on learning about opportunities and challenges in responsibly developing and deploying AI technologies across sectors in line with human-centric values in the OECD AI Principles. As a part of in-regional workshops and site visits, Aziz had examines case studies and best practices, strenghtened connections with distinguished AI policy experts and professionals from different parts of the world.

His research endeavors extend beyond theoretical frameworks to practical applications, particularly in the context of Central Asia. Aziz contributed to the review of the Kazakhstan’s National AI Policy and representation of the country in the Artificial Intelligence and Democractic Values Report issued by the CAIDP in 2023.

In addition to his contributions to national policy frameworks, Aziz has conducted thorough assessments of Kyrgyzstan’s AI landscape, offering valuable insights and recommendations through his overview of the country’s National AI Policy for the Global Index on Responsible AI (GIRAI) in 2024. The Global Index is designed to equip governments, civil society, and stakeholders with the evidence needed to advance rights-based principles for the responsible use of AI.

Aziz’s interests extend beyond conventional AI paradigms, encompassing emerging technologies such as small language models like Phi-2 and the field of TinyML. His forward-thinking approach reflects a keen awareness of the evolving AI landscape and a commitment to exploring innovative avenues for harnessing AI’s potential for the benefit of humanity.

With a wealth of experience and a passion for leveraging AI for positive societal impact, Aziz Soltobaev continues to be a driving force in shaping the responsible and equitable deployment of artificial intelligence on both national and global scales.

Aziz is also cofounder and Programs manager at the Internet Society Kyrgyz Chapter, which is focused on building healthy Internet for future generations. Aziz stands in the roots of the establishing of the Kyrgyz Go Federation, the fastest growing Go club in the European League.