In a statement on Friday, experts said emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence-based biometric surveillance systems are increasingly being used “in sensitive contexts.” without personal knowledge or consent
We need to draw an “urgent red line”
Experts, including Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and the promotion and protection of human rights, Fionnuala Nee Aorain, said that “technologies that claim to be emotion-aware and gender-aware present an urgent and stringent regulatory line to cross.” is needed,” he said.
Human Rights Council-appointed experts have already condemned the use of spyware and surveillance technology as “worrisome” and their impact on the work of human rights defenders and journalists, and have “often targeted national security and counter-terrorism efforts.” accused of doing so in the name of
They also called for regulation to address the lightning-fast development of generative AI that would enable mass production of fake online content that spreads disinformation and hate speech.
real world impact
Experts say these systems do not further expose people and communities to human rights abuses, including through the spread and abuse of intrusive surveillance practices that violate their right to privacy and facilitate gross human rights abuses. emphasized the need. Enforced Disappearance and Discrimination.
They also expressed concern about respect for freedom of expression, thought and expression. peaceful protest, and for access to essential economic, social and cultural rights and humanitarian services.
“Certain technologies and applications should be avoided entirely if: Impossible to regulate allegations of human rights violations‘ said the expert.
Experts also said the development of generative AI was being driven by a small number of powerful actors, including businesses and investors, without sufficient requirements to conduct human rights due diligence and consultations with affected individuals and communities. expressed concern about what was happening.
And the important work of internal regulation through content moderation is often done by individuals in situations of labor exploitation, independent experts said.
Increased transparency
“Regulations are urgently needed to ensure transparency, warn people when they encounter synthetic media, and inform the public about the training data and models being used,” the experts said.
Expert once again called attention From large-scale data collection, including the collection of sensitive biometric data, to the use of highly targeted surveillance techniques, the use of digital technology in humanitarian crisis situations.
“We urge you to refrain from using such measures until their broad human rights implications are fully understood and strong data protection measures are put in place,” they said.
Encryption, privacy first
They stressed the need to ensure technical solutions, including: Strong end-to-end encryption and free access to virtual private networks – Secure your digital communications.
“both Industry and State Must Take ResponsibilityIncluding economic, social, environmental and human rights impacts,” they said. “Next generation technology” Exclusion systems must not be replicated or enhanced, patterns of discrimination and oppression. ”
Special rapporteurs and other rights experts are all appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council and have a duty to monitor and report on specific thematic issues and national situations, but they are not United Nations employees and I haven’t received my salary.
