Artificial Intelligence: The Consequences for Human Rights

Announcement

Please join the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC) for a hearing on the impact of artificial intelligence technology on global human rights.

 Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computerized systems that work and react in ways thought to require intelligence, such as solving complex problems in real-world situations, and that often involve machine learning. Often AI systems can make decisions without significant human oversight. AI is an emerging set of technologies that have yet to reach their full potential, yet it is already clear that AI technologies are capable of sifting through the vast amount of information available on the world wide web and social media, enabling their users to complete mammoth tasks that were previously impossible using standard computer programs.

However, for many observers, these technologies bear an uncomfortable resemblance to the surveillance described in George Orwell’s 1984. Concerns have been raised about whether these tools could be misused by malicious countries or individuals, permitting unfettered access to private information and improving their ability to target those that they consider “undesirables.” There are signs that this is already happening in China.

This hearing will consider the impact of AI on human rights and human rights defenders. Witnesses will examine the potential harmful effects of AI, and discuss ways that the misuse of AI can be, if not prevented, mitigated. The positive potential of AI will also be discussed.

The hearing is open to Members of Congress, congressional staff, the interested public, and the media. The hearing will be livestreamed via the Commission website, https://humanrightscommission.house.gov/news/watch-live and will also be available for viewing on the House Digital Channel service. For any questions, please contact Matthew Singer (for Mr. Hultgren) at 202-226-3989 or Matthew.Singer@mail.house.gov or Kimberly Stanton (for Mr. McGovern) at 202-225-3599 or Kimberly.Stanton@mail.house.gov.

Hosted by: