From 24 to 26 September, an international forum is taking place in Riga, bringing together representatives from national and local government, researchers and technology experts from across Europe to discuss the use of artificial intelligence, 5G and drones to improve public safety and urban governance.
During the Forum, experts discuss how technology can help create safer and more inclusive societies; how artificial intelligence and the 5G network can become the basis for public safety and well-being of the population. Experts also share their experiences on the ethical use of artificial intelligence and the deployment of technologies.
The Forum brings together participants from the international projects 5G4LIVES and AI4CITIZENS. This year it is taking place in Riga, showing that Riga is no longer just a testing ground for technology, but a place where innovations are tested in real-life conditions and bring direct practical benefits to society.
Viesturs Kleinbergs, Chairman of the Riga City Council, points out: "Innovation is becoming part of Riga's strategic development. Riga is investing more and more in technologies that not only help develop the city, but also protect lives. For example, the use of drones in the work of the local government demonstrates how innovation can serve people, especially in crisis situations where every second counts."
Juris Binde, President of LLC (SIA) "Latvijas Mobilais Telefons", confirms: "The 5G network is not just faster internet – it is the foundation for a new ecosystem of security and public protection. We are pleased that Latvia is working on solutions that show how mobile technologies and artificial intelligence can work together to help save lives when every second counts."
Arnis Gulbis, Director of the Riga Digital Agency, adds: "Riga is now one of the first cities in Europe to not only test, but also put into practice next-generation digital solutions for public safety. 5G4LIVES and AI4CITIZENS are our opportunity to show how data, technology and international collaboration can serve the public interest." The Riga Digital Agency is the municipal authority responsible for developing the city's digital services, data and technologies, promoting a safer and more comfortable environment for its residents.
On 25 September, the Forum hosted a drone demonstration on the beach of Lake Ķīšezers to show how 5G network, drones and artificial intelligence can enable faster emergency response and help save lives. Equipped with 4K cameras, thermal sensors and 5G connectivity, the drones allow a much faster response to emergencies than ever before.
Andrejs Aronovs, Deputy Chief of the Riga Municipal Police, explains the benefits of using new technologies in policing: "Our work often means responding to unpredictable situations. The 5G4LIVES project allows us to see how new technologies – drones, artificial intelligence and 5G networks – can become a real help in everyday operations, making aid delivery more accurate, faster and safer."
5G4LIVES aims to save lives and protect the environment by combining drones, artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art data solutions. In Riga, the focus is on rescue operations near water bodies, while in the partner city of Turin, the focus is on landslides and fires in mountain areas. The AI4CITIZENS project addresses how artificial intelligence can become a trusted partner in local governance and helps municipalities to develop the regulations that ensure responsible implementation of AI.
Further information: Tatjana Smirnova, Project Coordinator of the External Communication Division of the Riga City Council, e-mail: tsmirnova11@riga.lv
