AI Law - International Review of Artificial Intelligence Law
G. Giappichelli Editore

02/06/2024 - Ensuring Human Rights in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Imperatives for Regulation (EU)

argument: Notizie/News - European Union Law

According to an article by ItaliaOggi, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) presents significant challenges and opportunities concerning human rights. The increasing deployment of AI technologies necessitates stringent regulations to protect and promote fundamental human rights, as emphasized by various international and European bodies.

Amnesty International has called for the European Union to take decisive action before the finalization of the AI Act, highlighting the need to eliminate discriminatory AI systems that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including migrants and refugees. Such technologies often profile individuals and can unjustly predict criminal behavior or deny asylum rights, leading to severe human rights violations​ .

The Council of Europe recently completed the first global legally binding instrument to ensure that AI upholds human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. This convention, developed by the Council’s Committee on Artificial Intelligence, aims to set a comprehensive legal framework covering AI systems throughout their lifecycle. The document will soon be submitted to the Committee of Ministers for adoption, making it available for global ratification​​.

Furthermore, the European Commission’s proposal for AI regulation, which began in 2021, has led to ongoing discussions within the European Parliament. The AI Act aims to introduce robust accountability and transparency measures for high-risk AI systems used within the EU. This includes prohibiting the use of biometric mass surveillance and social scoring systems that can infringe on individual rights and freedoms​ ​.

This regulatory framework is critical in preventing the misuse of AI, ensuring that it aligns with ethical standards and human rights norms. The involvement of various stakeholders, including governments, experts, and civil society, has been instrumental in shaping these regulations to balance innovation with ethical considerations.