Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: New Laws Are Needed
A group of MPs and senior officials has published a report highlighting the negative impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on human rights. This report, prepared by the Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR), emphasizes that current laws do not adequately address these threats and states that a new law regarding artificial intelligence is necessary. Committee chair Alex Sobel stated, "It is not possible to say that existing laws regarding artificial intelligence are fit for purpose anywhere in the world, including the United Kingdom."
The published report illustrates with examples how artificial intelligence can lead to human rights violations. In particular, situations such as the creation of sexual content images targeting women and girls using artificial intelligence and the unauthorized scanning of people's faces draw attention. JCHR proposes the establishment of an independent artificial intelligence oversight body and argues that the current legal framework is complex and fragmented, emphasizing that the protection gaps in this area need to be closed.
The report states that more responsibility should be taken during the development of artificial intelligence systems. It is noted that the AI law should classify different risk levels and impose stricter regulations for AI systems that carry higher risks. Additionally, it is emphasized that some AI applications should be completely banned because they are incompatible with human rights. These applications include subliminal techniques and inappropriate use of biometric data.
Sobel, emphasizing that artificial intelligence is a technology that has the potential to transform our lives positively or negatively, stated that it is difficult to accurately predict the effects of its speed and complexity. The 12 members of the JCHR consist of selected individuals from both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, indicating that laws regarding artificial intelligence can be addressed with a broader political consensus. Comments from the government on the issue are awaited.
Source: BBC Business
