14 March 2019, 15:30-16:30
Event
n3wjack's world in pixels
Upholding human rights in an age of artificial intelligence calls for an examination of the full rights implications of the digital society and to identify ways to effectively respond to the potential and challenges of big data and artificial intelligence (AI). This requires states and businesses to apply a human-rights based approach (HRBA) to existing and future applications of these technologies. An HRBA provides a common language to frame harms, offering clear parameters as to what is and is not permitted under international human rights law, both for state and non-state actors.
This event, co-organized with the Universal Rights Group (URG) and the Human Rights, Big Data and Technology Project at the University of Essex, will focus on three key areas:
Panellists will highlight not only how the rights to equality and non-discrimination, and privacy, are being affected by AI, but examine the gatekeeper role of these rights, and how violations thereof can strike at the core of identity and autonomy.
Actors that are currently designing, developing and using these technologies need to apply an HRBA to their work. This requires transparency to where, when, how and why big data and AI are being used, and ongoing human rights impact assessments and the establishment of accountability and independent oversight processes.
States and businesses are beginning to examine how individual and societal harm by AI might be addressed through dedicated policies, strategies and potential regulation. Panellists will show that an HRBA is an effective vehicle to bring together the different actors active in this field, including states, business enterprises, and civil society, in order to address the challenges and opportunities presented by big data and AI.
You must register via the event's page on the URG website to attend this event.
Geneva Academy
The Geneva Human Rights Platform contributed to key discussions on AI, human rights, and sustainable digital governance at the World Economic Forum 2025.
Geneva Academy
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Participants in this training course will be introduced to the major international and regional instruments for the promotion of human rights, as well as international environmental law and its implementation and enforcement mechanisms.
This training course will delve into the means and mechanisms through which national actors can best coordinate their human rights monitoring and implementation efforts, enabling them to strategically navigate the UN human rights system and use the various mechanisms available in their day-to-day work.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré
Geneva Academy