Brazil’s telecom regulator adopts AI governance policy for public-sector use

Brazil’s telecommunications regulator, National Telecommunications Agency, has adopted a new AI governance policy aimed at guiding the use of AI across its regulatory and administrative functions.

Approved on 5 June 2026, the framework was developed by Anatel’s IA.lab research group and sets out principles intended to ensure that AI systems are used in an ethical, secure, and transparent manner.

The policy establishes requirements for human oversight, transparency, data security, and the protection of fundamental rights. It also introduces mechanisms for monitoring risks associated with AI deployment and foresees the creation of a permanent forum to assess the use and impact of AI within the agency.

According to Anatel, the framework is designed to support the responsible adoption of AI tools while maintaining accountability in regulatory decision-making and public administration.

The policy also includes a technological sovereignty component. It encourages the development and use of AI solutions built in Brazil, promotes the use of local datasets, and supports the creation of AI applications designed for Portuguese-language contexts.

The adoption of the framework places Anatel among a growing number of public authorities that are establishing internal governance rules for AI systems before broader national AI legislation is finalised.

The policy was formally approved by Anatel on 5 June 2026 and will guide the agency’s future use of AI in its operations and regulatory activities.