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[Insert statement of urgency and significance for why this right relates to AI.]
Sectors #
The contributors of the AI & Human Rights Index have identified the following sectors as responsible for both using AI to protect and advance this human right.
- ART: Arts and CultureThe Arts and Culture sector encompasses organizations, institutions, and individuals involved in the creation, preservation, and promotion of artistic and cultural expressions. This includes content creators, the entertainment industry, historical documentation centers, cultural institutions, museums, and arts organizations. The ART sector plays a vital role in enriching societies, fostering creativity, preserving heritage, and promoting cultural diversity and understanding.
ART-CRT: Content Creators
Content Creators are individuals or groups who produce artistic or cultural works, including visual artists, musicians, writers, filmmakers, and digital creators. They contribute to the cultural landscape by expressing ideas, emotions, and narratives through various mediums. These creators are accountable for using AI ethically in their creative processes and in how they distribute and monetize their work. This involves respecting intellectual property rights, avoiding plagiarism facilitated by AI, and ensuring that AI-generated content does not perpetuate stereotypes or infringe on cultural sensitivities. By integrating ethical AI practices, content creators can enhance their creativity while upholding artistic integrity and cultural respect. Examples include using AI tools for music composition or visual art creation as a means of inspiration, while ensuring the final work is original and not infringing on others' rights. Employing AI to analyze audience engagement data to tailor content that resonates with diverse audiences without compromising artistic vision or reinforcing harmful biases.ART-ENT: Entertainment Industry
The Entertainment Industry comprises companies and professionals involved in the production, distribution, and promotion of entertainment content, such as films, television shows, music, and live performances. This industry significantly influences culture and public opinion. These entities are accountable for using AI ethically in content creation, marketing, and distribution. They must prevent the use of AI in ways that could lead to deepfakes, unauthorized use of likenesses, or manipulation of audiences. Ethical AI use can enhance production efficiency and audience engagement while protecting individual rights and promoting responsible content. Examples include implementing AI for special effects in films that respect performers' rights and obtain necessary consents. Using AI algorithms for content recommendations that promote diversity and avoid creating echo chambers or reinforcing stereotypes.ART-HDC: Historical Documentation Centers
Historical Documentation Centers are institutions that collect, preserve, and provide access to historical records, archives, and artifacts. They play a crucial role in safeguarding cultural heritage and supporting research. These centers are accountable for using AI ethically to digitize and manage collections while respecting the provenance of artifacts and the rights of communities connected to them. They must ensure that AI does not misrepresent historical information or contribute to cultural appropriation. Examples include employing AI for digitizing and cataloging archives, making them more accessible to the public and researchers while ensuring accurate representation. Using AI to restore or reconstruct historical artifacts or documents, respecting the original context and cultural significance.ART-INS: Cultural Institutions
Cultural Institutions include organizations such as libraries, theaters, cultural centers, and galleries that promote cultural activities and education. They foster community engagement and cultural appreciation. These institutions are accountable for using AI ethically to enhance visitor experiences, manage collections, and promote inclusivity. They must prevent biases in AI applications that could exclude or misrepresent certain cultures or communities. Examples include implementing AI-powered interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all backgrounds. Using AI analytics to understand visitor demographics and preferences, informing programming that is inclusive and representative of diverse cultures.ART-MUS: Museums
Museums are institutions that collect, preserve, and exhibit artifacts of artistic, cultural, historical, or scientific significance. They educate the public and contribute to cultural preservation. Museums are accountable for using AI ethically in curation, exhibition design, and visitor engagement. This includes respecting the cultural heritage of artifacts, obtaining proper consents for use, and ensuring that AI does not distort interpretations. Examples include using AI to create virtual reality experiences that allow visitors to explore exhibits remotely, expanding access while ensuring accurate representation. Employing AI for artifact preservation techniques, such as predicting degradation and optimizing conservation efforts.ART-ORG: Arts Organizations
Arts Organizations are groups that support artists and promote the arts through funding, advocacy, education, and community programs. They play a key role in fostering artistic expression and cultural development. These organizations are accountable for using AI ethically to support artists and audiences equitably. They must ensure that AI tools do not introduce biases in grant allocations, program selections, or audience targeting. Examples include utilizing AI to analyze grant applications objectively, ensuring fair consideration for artists from diverse backgrounds. Implementing AI-driven marketing strategies that reach wider audiences without infringing on privacy or perpetuating stereotypes.Summary
By embracing ethical AI practices, each of these sectors can significantly contribute to the prevention of human rights abuses and the advancement of human rights in arts and culture. Their accountability lies in the responsible development, deployment, and oversight of AI technologies to enhance creativity, preserve cultural heritage, promote diversity, and ensure that artistic expressions respect the rights and dignity of all individuals and communities.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the research and review stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you. - COM: Media and CommunicationThe Media and Communication sector encompasses organizations, platforms, and individuals involved in the creation, dissemination, and exchange of information and content. This includes content creators, arts and entertainment entities, news and media organizations, publishing and recording media, publishing industries, social media platforms, and telecommunications companies. The COM sector plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse, informing societies, and fostering connectivity, thereby influencing cultural, social, and political landscapes.
COM-CRT: Content Creators
Content Creators are individuals or groups who produce original content across various mediums, including writing, audio, video, and digital formats. They contribute to the diversity of information and entertainment available to the public. These creators are accountable for using AI ethically in content creation and distribution. This involves ensuring that AI tools do not infringe on intellectual property rights, propagate misinformation, or perpetuate biases and stereotypes. By integrating ethical AI practices, content creators can enhance creativity and reach while maintaining integrity and respecting audience rights. Examples include using AI for editing and enhancing content, such as automated video editing software, while ensuring that the final product is original and respects copyright laws. Employing AI analytics to understand audience engagement and tailor content without manipulating or exploiting user data.COM-ENT: Arts and Entertainment
The Arts and Entertainment sector includes organizations and individuals involved in producing and distributing artistic and entertainment content, such as films, music, theater, and performances. This sector significantly influences culture and societal values. These entities are accountable for using AI ethically in content production, distribution, and marketing. They must prevent the misuse of AI in creating deepfakes, unauthorized use of individuals' likenesses, or generating content that spreads harmful stereotypes. Ethical AI use can enhance production efficiency and audience engagement while promoting responsible content. Examples include implementing AI for special effects in films that respect performers' rights and obtain necessary consents. Using AI algorithms for content recommendations that promote diversity and avoid reinforcing biases or creating echo chambers.COM-NMO: News and Media Organizations
News and Media Organizations are entities that gather, produce, and distribute news and information to the public through various channels, including print, broadcast, and digital media. They play a critical role in informing the public and shaping public opinion. These organizations are accountable for using AI ethically in news gathering, content curation, and dissemination. This includes preventing the spread of misinformation, ensuring fairness and accuracy, and avoiding biases in AI-driven news algorithms. They must also respect privacy rights in data collection and protect journalistic integrity. Examples include using AI to automate fact-checking processes, enhancing the accuracy of reporting. Implementing AI algorithms for personalized news feeds that provide balanced perspectives and avoid creating filter bubbles.COM-PRM: Publishing and Recording Media
Publishing and Recording Media entities are involved in producing and distributing written, audio, and visual content, including books, music recordings, podcasts, and other media formats. They support artists and authors in reaching audiences. These entities are accountable for using AI ethically in content production, distribution, and rights management. They must respect intellectual property rights, ensure fair compensation for creators, and prevent unauthorized reproduction or distribution facilitated by AI. Examples include employing AI to convert books into audiobooks using synthetic voices, ensuring that proper licenses and consents are obtained. Using AI to detect and prevent piracy or unauthorized sharing of digital content.COM-PUB: Publishing Industries
The Publishing Industries focus on producing and disseminating literature, academic works, and informational content across various platforms. They contribute to education, culture, and the preservation of knowledge. These industries are accountable for using AI ethically in editing, production, and distribution processes. They must prevent biases in AI tools used for content selection or editing that could marginalize certain voices or perspectives. They should also respect authors' rights and ensure that AI does not infringe on intellectual property. Examples include using AI for manuscript editing and proofreading, enhancing efficiency while ensuring that the author's voice and intent are preserved. Implementing AI to recommend books to readers, promoting a diverse range of authors and topics.COM-SMP: Social Media Platforms
Social Media Platforms are online services that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking. They have a significant impact on communication, information dissemination, and social interaction. These platforms are accountable for using AI ethically in content moderation, recommendation algorithms, and advertising. They must prevent the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and harmful content, protect user data, and avoid algorithmic biases that could lead to echo chambers or discrimination. Examples include using AI to detect and remove harmful content such as harassment or incitement to violence while respecting freedom of expression. Implementing transparent algorithms that provide diverse content and prevent the reinforcement of biases.COM-TEL: Telecommunications Companies
Telecommunications Companies provide communication services such as telephone, internet, and data transmission. They build and maintain the infrastructure that enables connectivity and digital communication globally. These companies are accountable for using AI ethically to manage networks, improve services, and protect user data. They must ensure that AI applications do not infringe on privacy rights, enable unlawful surveillance, or discriminate against certain users. Examples include employing AI to optimize network performance, enhancing service quality without accessing or exploiting user communications. Using AI-driven security measures to protect networks from cyber threats while respecting legal obligations regarding data privacy.Summary
By embracing ethical AI practices, each of these sectors can significantly contribute to the prevention of human rights abuses and the advancement of human rights in media and communication. Their accountability lies in the responsible development, deployment, and oversight of AI technologies to enhance information dissemination, foster connectivity, and enrich cultural experiences while safeguarding individual rights, promoting diversity, and ensuring accurate and fair communication.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the research and review stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you. - GOV: Government and Public SectorThe Government and Public Sector encompasses all institutions and organizations that are part of the governmental framework at the local, regional, and national levels. This includes government agencies, civil registration services, economic planning bodies, public officials, public services, regulatory bodies, and government surveillance entities. The GOV sector is responsible for creating and implementing policies, providing public services, and upholding the rule of law. It plays a vital role in shaping society, promoting the welfare of citizens, and ensuring the effective functioning of the state.
GOV-AGY: Government Agencies
Government Agencies are administrative units of the government responsible for specific functions such as health, education, transportation, and environmental protection. They implement laws, deliver public services, and regulate various sectors. The GOV-AGY sector is accountable for ensuring that AI is used ethically in public administration. This includes promoting transparency, protecting citizens' data, and preventing biases in AI systems that could lead to unfair treatment. By integrating ethical AI practices, government agencies can enhance service delivery while upholding human rights. Examples include using AI-powered chatbots to improve citizen access to information and services while ensuring data privacy and security. Implementing AI in processing applications or claims efficiently, without discriminating against any group based on race, gender, or socioeconomic status.GOV-CRS: Civil Registration Services
Civil Registration Services are responsible for recording vital events such as births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. They maintain official records essential for legal identity and access to services. These services are accountable for using AI ethically to manage and protect personal data. They must ensure that AI systems used in data processing do not compromise the privacy or security of individuals' sensitive information. Ethical AI use can improve accuracy and efficiency in maintaining civil records. Examples include employing AI to detect and correct errors in civil records, ensuring that individuals' legal identities are accurately reflected. Using AI to streamline the registration process, making it more accessible while safeguarding personal data against unauthorized access.GOV-ECN: Economic Planning Bodies
Economic Planning Bodies are government entities that develop strategies for economic growth, resource allocation, and development policies. They analyze economic data to inform decision-making and promote national prosperity. The GOV-ECN sector is accountable for using AI in economic planning ethically. This involves ensuring that AI models do not perpetuate economic disparities or exclude marginalized communities from development benefits. By applying ethical AI, they can promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Examples include utilizing AI for economic forecasting to make informed policy decisions that benefit all segments of society. Implementing AI to assess the potential impact of economic policies on different demographics, thereby promoting equity and reducing inequality.GOV-PPM: Public Officials
Public Officials include elected representatives and appointed officers who hold positions of authority within the government. They are responsible for making decisions, enacting laws, and overseeing the implementation of policies. Public officials are accountable for promoting the ethical use of AI in governance. They must ensure that AI technologies are used to enhance democratic processes, increase transparency, and protect citizens' rights. Their leadership is crucial in setting ethical standards and regulations for AI deployment. Examples include advocating for legislation that regulates AI use to prevent abuses such as mass surveillance or algorithmic discrimination. Using AI tools to engage with constituents more effectively, such as sentiment analysis on public feedback, while ensuring that such tools respect privacy and free speech rights.GOV-PUB: Public Services
Public Services encompass various services provided by the government to its citizens, including healthcare, education, transportation, and public safety. These services aim to meet the needs of the public and improve quality of life. The GOV-PUB sector is accountable for integrating AI into public services ethically. This involves ensuring equitable access, preventing biases, and protecting user data. Ethical AI use can enhance service efficiency and effectiveness while respecting human rights. Examples include deploying AI in public healthcare systems to predict disease outbreaks and allocate resources efficiently, without compromising patient confidentiality. Using AI in public transportation to optimize routes and schedules, improving accessibility while safeguarding passenger data.GOV-REG: Regulatory Bodies
Regulatory Bodies are government agencies tasked with overseeing specific industries or activities to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. They protect public interests by enforcing standards and addressing misconduct. These bodies are accountable for regulating the ethical use of AI across various sectors. They must develop guidelines and enforce compliance to prevent AI-related abuses, such as discrimination or privacy violations. Their role is critical in setting the framework for responsible AI deployment. Examples include establishing regulations that require transparency in AI algorithms used by companies, ensuring they do not discriminate against consumers. Monitoring and auditing AI systems to verify compliance with data protection laws and ethical standards.GOV-SUR: Government Surveillance
Government Surveillance entities are responsible for monitoring activities for purposes such as national security, law enforcement, and public safety. They collect and analyze data to detect and prevent criminal activities and threats. The GOV-SUR sector is accountable for ensuring that AI used in surveillance respects human rights, including the rights to privacy and freedom of expression. They must balance security objectives with individual freedoms, adhering to legal frameworks and ethical standards. Examples include implementing AI-driven surveillance systems with strict oversight to prevent misuse and unauthorized access. Employing AI for specific, targeted investigations with appropriate warrants and legal processes, avoiding mass surveillance practices that infringe on citizens' rights.Summary
By embracing ethical AI practices, each of these sectors can significantly contribute to the prevention of human rights abuses and the advancement of human rights within government and public services. Their accountability lies in the responsible development, deployment, and oversight of AI technologies to enhance governance, protect citizens, and promote transparency and fairness in public administration.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the research and review stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you. - TECH: Technology and ITThe Technology and IT sector encompasses companies and organizations involved in the development, production, and maintenance of technology products and services. This includes technology companies, cybersecurity firms, digital platforms, educational technology companies, healthcare technology companies, legal tech companies, smart home device manufacturers, social media platforms, and telecommunications companies. The TECH sector plays a pivotal role in driving innovation, connecting people globally, and shaping how societies operate in the digital age.
TECH-COM: Technology Companies
Technology Companies are businesses that develop and sell technology products or services, such as software developers, hardware manufacturers, and IT service providers. They are at the forefront of technological advancements and influence various aspects of modern life. These companies are accountable for ensuring that AI is developed and deployed ethically, promoting transparency, fairness, and accountability. They must prevent biases in AI algorithms, protect user data, and consider the societal impact of their technologies. By integrating ethical AI practices, they can foster trust and contribute positively to society. Examples include developing AI applications that respect user privacy by minimizing data collection and implementing strong security measures. Creating AI systems that are transparent and explainable, allowing users to understand how decisions are made and challenging them if necessary.TECH-CSF: Cybersecurity Firms
Cybersecurity Firms specialize in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, unauthorized access, or damage. They offer services like threat detection, vulnerability assessments, and incident response. These firms are accountable for using AI ethically to enhance cybersecurity while respecting privacy and legal boundaries. They must ensure that AI tools do not infringe on users' rights or engage in unauthorized surveillance. Ethical AI use can strengthen defenses against cyber threats without compromising individual freedoms. Examples include employing AI to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time, protecting organizations and users from harm while ensuring that monitoring activities comply with privacy laws. Providing AI-driven security solutions that help organizations safeguard data without accessing or misusing sensitive information.TECH-DGP: Digital Platforms
Digital Platforms are online businesses that facilitate interactions between users, such as e-commerce sites, content sharing services, and marketplaces. They connect buyers and sellers, content creators and consumers, and enable various online activities. These platforms are accountable for using AI ethically to manage content, personalize user experiences, and ensure safe interactions. This involves preventing algorithmic biases, protecting user data, and avoiding practices that could lead to discrimination or exploitation. Examples include using AI to recommend content or products in a way that promotes diversity and avoids reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Implementing AI moderation tools to detect and remove inappropriate or illegal content while respecting freedom of expression and avoiding censorship of legitimate speech.TECH-EDU: Educational Technology Companies
Educational Technology Companies develop tools and platforms that support teaching and learning processes. They create software, applications, and devices used in educational settings, from K-12 schools to higher education and corporate training. These companies are accountable for designing AI-powered educational tools that are accessible, inclusive, and respect students' privacy. They must prevent biases that could disadvantage certain learners and ensure that data collected is used responsibly. Examples include creating AI-driven personalized learning systems that adapt to individual students' needs without compromising their privacy. Developing educational platforms that are accessible to students with disabilities, adhering to universal design principles.TECH-HTC: Healthcare Technology Companies
Healthcare Technology Companies focus on developing technological solutions for the healthcare industry. They innovate in areas like electronic health records, telemedicine, medical imaging, and AI-driven diagnostics. These companies are accountable for ensuring that their AI technologies are safe, effective, and respect patient rights. They must obtain necessary regulatory approvals, protect patient data, and prevent biases in AI models that could lead to misdiagnosis. Examples include developing AI algorithms for medical imaging analysis that are trained on diverse datasets to provide accurate results across different populations. Implementing telehealth platforms that securely handle patient information and comply with healthcare privacy regulations.TECH-LTC: Legal Tech Companies
Legal Tech Companies provide technology solutions for legal professionals and organizations. They develop software for case management, document automation, legal research, and AI-powered analytics. These companies are accountable for creating AI tools that enhance the legal profession ethically. They must ensure their products do not perpetuate biases, maintain client confidentiality, and support the integrity of legal processes. Examples include offering AI-driven legal research platforms that provide unbiased results, helping lawyers build fair cases. Designing contract analysis tools that protect sensitive information and comply with data protection laws.TECH-SHD: Smart Home Device Manufacturers
Smart Home Device Manufacturers produce internet-connected devices used in homes, such as smart thermostats, security systems, voice assistants, and appliances. These devices often utilize AI to provide enhanced functionality and user convenience. These manufacturers are accountable for ensuring that their devices respect user privacy, are secure from unauthorized access, and do not collect excessive personal data. They must be transparent about data usage and provide users with control over their information. Examples include designing smart devices that operate effectively without constantly transmitting data to external servers, minimizing privacy risks. Implementing robust security measures to protect devices from hacking or misuse.TECH-SMP: Social Media Platforms
Social Media Platforms are online services that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking. They play a significant role in information dissemination, communication, and shaping public discourse. These platforms are accountable for using AI ethically in content moderation, recommendation algorithms, and advertising. They must prevent the spread of misinformation, protect user data, and avoid algorithmic biases that could lead to echo chambers or discrimination. Examples include using AI to detect and remove harmful content such as hate speech or incitement to violence while respecting freedom of expression. Implementing transparent algorithms that provide diverse perspectives and prevent the reinforcement of biases.TECH-TEL: Telecommunications Companies
Telecommunications Companies provide communication services such as telephone, internet, and data transmission. They build and maintain the infrastructure that enables connectivity and digital communication globally. These companies are accountable for using AI ethically to manage networks, improve services, and protect user data. They must ensure that AI applications do not infringe on privacy rights or enable unlawful surveillance. Examples include employing AI to optimize network performance, enhancing service quality without accessing or exploiting user communications. Using AI-driven security measures to protect networks from cyber threats while respecting legal obligations regarding data privacy.Summary
By embracing ethical AI practices, each of these sectors can significantly contribute to the prevention of human rights abuses and the advancement of human rights in the technology and IT domain. Their accountability lies in the responsible development, deployment, and oversight of AI technologies to drive innovation while safeguarding individual rights, promoting fairness, and building public trust in technological advancements.
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AI’s Potential Violations #
[Insert 300- to 500-word analysis of how AI could violate this human right.]
AI’s Potential Benefits #
[Insert 300- to 500-word analysis of how AI could advance this human right.]
Human Rights Instruments #
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) #
G.A. Res. 217 (III) A, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, U.N. Doc. A/RES/217(III) (Dec. 10, 1948)
Article 19
Everyone has the right to Freedom
of opinion and expression; this right includes FreedomFreedom means having the autonomy to make choices and act without undue interference or coercion from others. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and human rights, it highlights each person’s right to self-determination and control over their own life and personal data, even as AI systems increasingly influence our daily decisions. Freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and a foundational principle in AI ethics, ensuring that technology upholds individual autonomy rather than undermining it. The rise of AI has a direct impact on fundamental freedoms—from freedom of expression online to the right to privacy—making it crucial that AI is developed and used in ways that respect and protect these rights. Legal frameworks worldwide recognize these freedoms; for example, data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) give individuals more control over their personal information, reinforcing their freedom from unwarranted surveillance or data misuse. In practice, this means AI systems should be designed to empower users—allowing people to access information, form opinions, and make choices without being manipulated or unjustly restricted by algorithms.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.Freedom means having the autonomy to make choices and act without undue interference or coercion from others. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and human rights, it highlights each person’s right to self-determination and control over their own life and personal data, even as AI systems increasingly influence our daily decisions. Freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and a foundational principle in AI ethics, ensuring that technology upholds individual autonomy rather than undermining it. The rise of AI has a direct impact on fundamental freedoms—from freedom of expression online to the right to privacy—making it crucial that AI is developed and used in ways that respect and protect these rights. Legal frameworks worldwide recognize these freedoms; for example, data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) give individuals more control over their personal information, reinforcing their freedom from unwarranted surveillance or data misuse. In practice, this means AI systems should be designed to empower users—allowing people to access information, form opinions, and make choices without being manipulated or unjustly restricted by algorithms.to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.
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International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966) #
G.A. Res. 2200A (XXI), International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, U.N. Doc. A/6316 (1966), 999 U.N.T.S. 171 (Dec. 16, 1966)
Article 17
1. No one shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with his Privacy
, family, home or correspondence, nor to unlawful attacks on his honour and reputation.Privacy in artificial intelligence (AI) is the principle that AI systems must respect individuals' rights to control their personal information and ensure the ethical handling of data throughout its lifecycle. As a cornerstone of AI ethics, privacy extends beyond technical safeguards to empower individuals with agency over their data and decisions informed by it. Grounded in international human rights law and frameworks such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), privacy intersects with key AI ethics themes, including fairness, accountability, and security. Given AI’s reliance on vast amounts of personal data, privacy risks arise in areas such as surveillance, predictive analytics, and decision-making. Privacy principles emphasize transparency, consent, and the protection of individual rights. Core aspects include "privacy by design," which integrates privacy protections into AI development and operations, and rights such as data minimization, the ability to restrict processing, and data rectification or erasure. Compliance with privacy laws fosters trust and accountability, while privacy's ethical dimensions highlight its role as a public good, benefiting not just individuals but society at large. Safeguarding privacy helps maintain public trust and supports democratic values, ensuring AI systems align with societal priorities. Ensuring privacy in AI requires a holistic approach that combines technical, legal, and organizational measures. Techniques like anonymization, encryption, and differential privacy protect data from breaches and unauthorized access. Regulatory frameworks establish standards for privacy protections, while ethical practices promote accountability and responsible data usage. By addressing privacy concerns through governance, technical innovation, and public awareness, AI systems can uphold societal values and ethical principles, fostering trust and advancing responsible technological progress. Recommended Reading Jessica Fjeld, Nele Achten, Hannah Hilligoss, Adam Nagy, and Madhulika Srikumar. "Principled Artificial Intelligence: Mapping Consensus in Ethical and Rights-Based Approaches to Principles for AI ." Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University, Research Publication No. 2020-1, January 15, 2020. Anna Jobin, Marcello Ienca, and Effy Vayena. "The Global Landscape of AI Ethics Guidelines." Nature Machine Intelligence 1 (2019): 389–399.
Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.2. Everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.
Article 19
1. Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference.
2. Everyone shall have the right to Freedom
of expression; this right shall include FreedomFreedom means having the autonomy to make choices and act without undue interference or coercion from others. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and human rights, it highlights each person’s right to self-determination and control over their own life and personal data, even as AI systems increasingly influence our daily decisions. Freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and a foundational principle in AI ethics, ensuring that technology upholds individual autonomy rather than undermining it. The rise of AI has a direct impact on fundamental freedoms—from freedom of expression online to the right to privacy—making it crucial that AI is developed and used in ways that respect and protect these rights. Legal frameworks worldwide recognize these freedoms; for example, data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) give individuals more control over their personal information, reinforcing their freedom from unwarranted surveillance or data misuse. In practice, this means AI systems should be designed to empower users—allowing people to access information, form opinions, and make choices without being manipulated or unjustly restricted by algorithms.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.Freedom means having the autonomy to make choices and act without undue interference or coercion from others. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and human rights, it highlights each person’s right to self-determination and control over their own life and personal data, even as AI systems increasingly influence our daily decisions. Freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and a foundational principle in AI ethics, ensuring that technology upholds individual autonomy rather than undermining it. The rise of AI has a direct impact on fundamental freedoms—from freedom of expression online to the right to privacy—making it crucial that AI is developed and used in ways that respect and protect these rights. Legal frameworks worldwide recognize these freedoms; for example, data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) give individuals more control over their personal information, reinforcing their freedom from unwarranted surveillance or data misuse. In practice, this means AI systems should be designed to empower users—allowing people to access information, form opinions, and make choices without being manipulated or unjustly restricted by algorithms.to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.
Disclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.3. The exercise of the rights provided for in paragraph 2 of this article carries with it special duties and responsibilities. It may therefore be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall only be such as are provided by law and are necessary:
(a) For respect of the rights or reputations of others;
(b) For the protection of national Security
or of public order (ordre public), or of public health or morals.Security in artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the principle that AI systems must be designed to resist external threats and protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data and functionality. Security ensures AI systems are safeguarded against unauthorized access, manipulation, or exploitation, maintaining trust and reliability in AI technologies. This principle is particularly critical in sensitive domains such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where vulnerabilities can have far-reaching consequences. Effective AI security emphasizes proactive measures, such as testing system resilience, sharing information about cyber threats, and implementing robust data protection strategies. Techniques like anonymization, de-identification, and data aggregation reduce risks to personal and sensitive information. Security by design—embedding security measures at every stage of an AI system’s lifecycle—is a cornerstone of this principle. This includes deploying fallback mechanisms, secure software protocols, and continuous monitoring to detect and address potential threats. These measures not only protect AI systems but also foster trust among users and stakeholders by ensuring their safe and ethical operation. Challenges to achieving AI security include the increasing complexity of AI models, the sophistication of cyber threats, and the need to balance security with transparency and usability. As AI technologies often operate across borders, international cooperation is essential to establish and enforce global security standards. Collaborative efforts among governments, private sector actors, and civil society can create unified frameworks to address cross-border threats and ensure the ethical deployment of secure AI systems. Ultimately, the principle of security safeguards individual and organizational assets while upholding broader societal trust in AI. By prioritizing security in design, deployment, and governance, developers and policymakers can ensure AI technologies serve humanity responsibly and reliably. For Further Reading Fjeld, Jessica, Nele Achten, Hannah Hilligoss, Adam Nagy, and Madhulika Srikumar. “Principled Artificial Intelligence: Mapping Consensus in Ethical and Rights-Based Approaches to Principles for AI.” Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University, Research Publication No. 2020-1, January 15, 2020.
Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you.
European Union, General DataDisclaimer: Our global network of contributors to the AI & Human Rights Index is currently writing these articles and glossary entries. This particular page is currently in the recruitment and research stage. Please return later to see where this page is in the editorial workflow. Thank you! We look forward to learning with and from you. Protection Regulations (2016) #
United Nations (2019) #
G.A. Res. 73/179, United Nations General Assembly Resolution on the Right to Privacy in the Digital Age, U.N. Doc. A/RES/73/179 (Jan. 21, 2019)
Last Updated: April 17, 2025
Research Assistant: Aarianna Aughtry
Contributor: To Be Determined
Reviewer: To Be Determined
Editor: Alexander Kriebitz
Subject: Human Right
Edition: Edition 1.0 Research
Recommended Citation: "XIV.D. Digital Rights and Online Freedoms, Edition 1.0 Research." In AI & Human Rights Index, edited by Nathan C. Walker, Dirk Brand, Caitlin Corrigan, Georgina Curto Rex, Alexander Kriebitz, John Maldonado, Kanshukan Rajaratnam, and Tanya de Villiers-Botha. New York: All Tech is Human; Camden, NJ: AI Ethics Lab at Rutgers University, 2025. Accessed April 22, 2025. https://aiethicslab.rutgers.edu/Docs/xiv-d-digital-rights/.
