AI governance is the set of rules, processes and oversight that organisations and governments use to manage the risks of AI while still getting its benefits.
In plain words
Governance turns principles into practice. Inside a company it means deciding who approves an AI system, how risks are assessed, and how it is monitored after launch. At national level it means laws and standards. Frameworks such as the US NIST AI Risk Management Framework give voluntary guidance; laws such as the EU AI Act set binding rules.
A quick example
Imagine a company that wants AI to screen job applications. Its governance process requires a risk assessment, testing for bias, a named owner, human review of rejections and regular checks after launch. The EU AI Act counts AI used in recruitment as high risk, with strict duties such as human oversight.
Where you'll meet it
- Company AI policies and approval processes.
- National laws, standards and international principles.
Related
Sources
- DocsAI Risk Management Framework, NIST · read 29 Sept 2026
- DocsOECD AI Principles, OECD.AI · read 29 Sept 2026
- DocsAI Act enters into force, European Commission · read 29 Sept 2026
Checked by WhatIsAI against the sources above · 29 Sept 2026. Spotted an error? Report it.