Trust in Tech: Navigating emerging technologies and human rights in a connected world | WSIS+20

The panel discussion titled ‘Trust in Tech: Navigating Emerging Technologies and Human Rights in a Connected World,’ held at WSIS+20, co-organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Office of the UN High Commission for Human Rights (OHCHR), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), brought together a diverse group of experts.

The potential and challenges of AI

The panellists discussed the transformative potential of AI in addressing various global challenges. AI’s applications in climate action, hunger elimination, poverty eradication, and improving access to education and healthcare were highlighted. However, the conversation also addressed the darker side of AI, including issues like discrimination, bias, disinformation, and hate speech. The need for integrating human rights into developing and deploying AI technologies was emphasised to mitigate these risks.

The role of technical standards

A key point of the discussion was the importance of technical standards in ensuring the interoperability, security, and compatibility of emerging technologies. Standards were seen as essential building blocks that must incorporate human rights perspectives. This balance between innovation and ethical considerations was deemed crucial. The panellists advocated for a multistakeholder approach involving governments, businesses, civil society, technical communities, and international organisations to effectively address the human rights implications of new technologies.

Education and interdisciplinary collaboration

Education on human rights was underscored as vital for the meaningful implementation and management of AI tools and services. The panellists called for increased interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge the gap between the technical and human rights communities. This collaboration was seen as necessary to develop AI solutions that are both innovative and respectful of human rights.

Flexible and adaptable regulation

The need for regulation that promotes technological innovation while protecting human rights was another major topic. The panellists stressed the importance of creating clear laws and principles that align with each country’s context. They advocated for flexible and adaptable regulations and highlighted the necessity of collaborative approaches to ensure diverse perspectives are considered, resulting in practical and effective regulations.

The role of civil society

Civil society organisations were recognised for their crucial role in shaping technical standards that uphold human rights. The panellists encouraged these organisations to help demystify technical jargon, raise awareness about the importance of standard-setting, and bring specific issues and experiences into the standard-setting process. Civil society’s involvement was seen as essential for ensuring that technical standards serve the interests of diverse communities.

Leadership and coordination

The event concluded with a call for leadership, collaboration, and coordination among ITU, ISO, and OHCHR. Ensuring that a wide range of stakeholder views are considered in the development of technical standards was deemed crucial. The panellists highlighted the importance of an inclusive approach that considers stakeholders from both developed and developing countries.

Existing human rights frameworks

The panellists acknowledged the existing human rights norms and frameworks as a solid foundation for guiding the development and use of technologies. They stressed the need for ongoing collaboration between human rights organisations, standard-setting bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure that technical standards align with human rights and promote trust among users.

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