NHRI Participates In International Conference On Artificial Intelligence And Human Rights In Doha To Discuss Ethical Technology

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) recently participated in the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights in Doha, Qatar. The event, held from 27–28 May, focused on "Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future." Maqsoud Kruse led the NHRI delegation, which included Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori and other key members. The conference aimed to explore the intersection of AI and human rights.

Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori presented a paper titled "The role of NHRI in promoting the legal and ethical aspects of artificial intelligence in the UAE." His presentation emphasised the need to prioritise human rights within technological advancements, particularly in AI. He highlighted how AI is reshaping social structures and governance while posing challenges related to human rights and equity.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly impacting various sectors such as social structures, governance systems, and labour markets. This influence brings about complex questions concerning human rights, law, and fairness. Dr. Al Mansoori stressed the importance of addressing these issues through dialogue at a time when technology rapidly evolves alongside global human rights concerns.

Maqsoud Kruse commented on NHRI’s commitment to ethical AI development from a human rights perspective. He stated, "The NHRI places great emphasis on the ethical aspects of artificial intelligence from a human rights perspective. We believe that no technological advancement can be truly sustainable or socially acceptable without being firmly grounded in ethical and human rights principles."

The UAE has taken significant steps in integrating AI with human rights considerations. It was the first country to appoint a Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017. Since then, it has launched a national AI strategy and established an AI council. Projects like Stargate in Abu Dhabi aim to leverage technology while maintaining a focus on people.

The NHRI has partnered with the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence to ensure that national policies on emerging technologies include human rights considerations. This collaboration aims to create frameworks that guide AI deployment responsibly while safeguarding fundamental rights.

Commitment to Ethical Development

The UAE’s Charter for the Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence supports its national AI strategy by outlining principles such as ethics, collaboration, sustainability, and safety. Kruse highlighted that ethics are central to this charter, reinforcing efforts to address challenges like bias and accountability through responsible AI development.

Kruse also noted NHRI’s active involvement in events like the 2024 World Government Summit where AI was discussed extensively. Additionally, during Dubai AI Week's AI Retreat in April this year, NHRI advocated for strong legislative frameworks guiding AI use while protecting individual freedoms.

The NHRI’s participation at the conference underscores its role as an influential contributor shaping policies balancing innovation with individual freedom protection. By collaborating with other institutions globally focused on human rights issues related to technology advancements ensures transparent governance frameworks emerge around these new technologies.

With inputs from WAM