At the National Eisteddfod last week (7 August 2025) the Welsh Language Commissioner published a policy statement regarding the use of artificial intelligence by institutions that come under the Welsh Language Standards. The Welsh Language Standards were introduced in 2016, and they require some public bodies to conform to specific conditions regarding the visibility of Welsh and services provided through the medium of Welsh.
The purpose of the document is to ensure that these organisations continue to comply with the Welsh Language Standards as use of artificial intelligence becomes more widespread as a means of translating texts or to engage with the public for example. In a statement Osian Llywelyn Deputy Welsh Language Commissioner and Director of Regulation said:
“The field of artificial intelligence is developing at a fast pace and is sure to fundamentally change how we communicate with each other and the world around us, while at the same time offering valuable opportunities to improve the services provided in Wales.”
“The Welsh language standards ensure that Welsh is treated equally with English and remains a living language in our everyday lives. It is therefore important that any technological developments are regulated in a way that continues to reflect consumer habits, ensuring that the Welsh language is maintained and promoted in the digital world.”
“We are supportive of the use of AI as it offers unique opportunities to improve services, but this must be done in a way that respects and promotes our language and culture. We hope that the publication of this policy today will be a means of assisting in doing so effectively.”
Osian Jones from the Centre for Digital Public Services, who took part in a discussion regarding the policy at the Eisteddfod, said that there was a need to provide guidance in order to ensure quality digital services:
“The Digital Services Standard for Wales has been developed in collaboration with the Welsh Government and local authorities across Wales. It defines what good public services look like in Wales and helps public organisations design and deliver efficient and cost-effective services that are focused on the needs of the consumer.”
“Our aim as a Centre is to help organisations deliver quality public services and make them easy to use. By working together, we hope that we can ensure that Wales continues to be a leader in technology, while also maintaining and promoting our unique language and culture.”
You can read the policy statement in in full by following this link.
