WSIS+20: Embedding Human Rights in AI Standards: From Principles to Practice

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming societies at an unprecedented pace. While they offer vast opportunities, they also pose risks to the enjoyment of human rights. Technical standards, as foundational elements of digital infrastructure, can either safeguard or undermine these rights depending on their design and implementation.

In the Global Digital Compact, Member States call on standards development organizations (SDOs) to collaborate in promoting the development and adoption of interoperable artificial intelligence standards that uphold safety, reliability, sustainability, and human rights. In line with this vision, the Compact also recommends establishing an AI Standards Exchange to maintain a register of definitions and applicable standards for evaluating AI systems. Moreover, the Freedom Online Coalition’s 2024 Joint Statement urges SDOs and all stakeholders to embed human rights principles in the conception, design, development, and deployment of technical standards.

Thus, this side event will explore how such standards and tools can be developed to uphold human dignity, equality, privacy, and non-discrimination throughout the AI lifecycle.