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
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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.
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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.
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Commercial AI Use
AI and ADS are used widely in commerce – in social media, in advertising, for hiring, for housing, and more.
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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.
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Screening & Scoring
Governments and companies are increasingly using opaque, unaccountable, and discriminatory screening and scoring tools to make life-altering decisions.
Top Updates
The Fight for Privacy Continues
November 6, 2024
EPIC Commends FTC Order Prohibiting DoNotPay’s Deceptive AI Claims
November 1, 2024
Contact EPIC’s Experts on AI & Human Rights
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Calli Schroeder
EPIC Senior Counsel and Global Privacy Counsel
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Caitriona Fitzgerald
Deputy Director
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Kara Williams
EPIC Law Fellow
Explore EPIC’s Work on AI & Human Rights
Browse amicus briefs, documentation obtained through FOIA litigation, testimony, agency comments, and archival materials related to EPIC’s work on AI & Human Rights.
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