Issues

AI & Human Rights

Artificial intelligence and machine learning systems are being deployed in opaque and unaccountable ways that can harm individuals and exacerbate biases. EPIC advocates for transparent, equitable, and commonsense AI policy and regulations.

Background

Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems are used by many private sector and government entities. The definition of AI is subject to much debate, and the degree of technological sophistication in the systems can vary greatly. But there is no doubt that the use and development of AI systems is expanding rapidly.

The use of AI is poorly regulated in the United States, and the inner workings of the systems are often opaque. In many cases, members of the public are not even aware that AI systems are being used to make decisions that impact their lives.

It is essential to establish regulations that recognize the harms posed by AI systems and require transparency, oversight, and accountability for both commercial and government uses of AI. Further, regulations must create opportunities for individuals to enforce protective rules with private rights of action. EPIC consistently urges government actors to use The Universal Guidelines for AI and the OECD AI principles as frameworks to guide their policymaking towards equitable solutions.

Areas of Focus Within AI & Human Rights

Get more detail on issues related to AI & Human Rights

  • AI in the Criminal Justice System

    AI is used widely and opaquely both directly in the criminal legal system and in ways that directly feed the criminal justice cycle in the U.S.

  • AI Policy

    Substantial protective AI regulation is still sorely lacking in the U.S., but there has been movement in state legislatures and internationally, as well as policies and frameworks embraced by the federal government.

  • Commercial AI Use

    AI and ADS are used widely in commerce – in social media, in advertising, for hiring, for housing, and more.

  • Government AI Use

    Governments at every level have adopted the use of AI and ADS to assist in law enforcement, benefit distribution, education, and more.

  • Screening & Scoring

    Governments and companies are increasingly using opaque, unaccountable, and discriminatory screening and scoring tools to make life-altering decisions.

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