Doha: The 'Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future' conference is scheduled to commence on Tuesday. Organized by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the National Cybersecurity Agency, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), Huawei, and various international stakeholders in digital technologies, the conference aims to address the critical intersection of AI and human rights.
According to Qatar News Agency, HE Chairperson of the NHRC Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah emphasized the significance of the conference, highlighting the growing concern among human rights activists globally regarding the rapid advancements in AI and its potential impact on individual rights. She stressed the necessity of establishing a legal framework to protect privacy and other rights, ensuring that technological advancements do not compromise individual and community rights in favor of financial gain.
Her Excellency further noted that the conference's primary goal is to explore both the challenges and opportunities AI presents for human rights specialists worldwide. The event is expected to draw approximately 800 participants, including government officials, policymakers, AI and technology experts, human rights defenders, legal professionals, AI ethics experts, civil society representatives, academics, international organizations, private sector companies, and technology developers.
The conference will span two days, featuring an opening session and four main sessions on the first day. The second day will include a plenary session for national human rights institutions, followed by four working groups across eight sessions, a plenary session to discuss recommendations, and a closing plenary session.
Key topics to be discussed include the foundations of AI, machine learning, natural language processing, AI's impact on privacy, algorithmic bias, discrimination, freedom of expression, and the role of AI in content moderation, censorship, and preserving free speech. Participants will also focus on AI governance, human rights-based AI policies, transparency, and redress mechanisms.
The conference will address digital access and justice, ensuring equitable access to AI resources, and bridging the digital divide. Discussions will also cover AI for good, leveraging positive applications in health, justice, the environment, and education.
Legal and ethical frameworks, policies, and standards for responsible AI use will be examined, alongside AI's implications for security, militarization, armed conflict, and human rights. Additionally, the role of AI in shaping democratic institutions and promoting inclusive participation will be explored.
The conference will include discussions on AI's impact on media, employment, and job opportunities, exploring how these transformations affect workers' rights and economic inequality. An accompanying exhibition will showcase AI's transformative impact on global challenges, society, and industries, with a focus on ethical governance and human rights.