Artificial intelligence, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law - A primer (2021)

Produced by The Alan Turing Institute to support the Feasibility Study published by the Council of Europe's Ad Hoc Committee on Artificial Intelligence

It is a remarkable fact that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies over the last two decades have placed contemporary society at a pivot-point in deciding what shape the future of humanity will take. On the one hand, the flourishing of societally beneficial AI innovation promises, among other things, to help us tackle climate change and biodiversity loss; to equitably improve medical care, living standards, transportation, and agricultural production; and to address many of the social injustices and material inequalities that beset today's world. On the other hand, the proliferation of irresponsible AI innovations is revealing warning signs of the potential troubles that may lie ahead if the advancement of these technologies continues on its current worrying trajectory.

The purpose of this primer is to introduce the main concepts and principles presented in the CAHAI's Feasibility Study for a general, non-technical audience. It also aims to provide some background information on the areas of AI innovation, human rights law, technology policy, and compliance mechanisms covered therein. In keeping with the Council of Europe's commitment to broad multistakeholder consultations, outreach, and engagement, this primer has been designed to help facilitate the meaningful and informed participation of an inclusive group of stakeholders as the CAHAI seeks feedback and guidance regarding the essential issues raised by The Feasibility Study.