UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

10/26/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/26/2021 05:18

Artificial Intelligence experts and policymakers discuss inclusion in AI policy development

AI policy design should be human-centered

In the workshops, the effects of AI on human rights and fundamental freedoms were emphasized. As per Jake Okechukwu Effoduh, Nigerian lawyer and activist, "technology is not neutral. It can either advance or infringe on human rights". He added that, "a broad range of human rights protections are now affected by the deployment and use of AI". For example, while it may be necessary for security reasons, the use of facial recognition technology in public may affect democracy by taking away the space to protest, according to Jibu Elias, Research Lead at INDIAai.

As such, policymakers should focus on the human rights aspect in designing AI policies, said Wanda Munoz, independent public policy and human rights expert from Mexico. In addition to policymakers, other actors in society have a part to play. "To guide legislative intervention, scientists must strive to paint an explainable picture of the technology's impact. Civil society and the media are crucial towards the legitimization of the technology because they can influence public awareness and acceptance," said Effoduh.