(Originally published on the Dig Watch website)

Governments are increasingly using AI to improve efficiency or lower the costs of public services by automating decision-making in public services. At the same time, such algorithmic systems can also cause harm human rights (through reinforcing discrimination and undermining the privacy of digital personal data, e.g.), and frequently lack transparency and accountability in their implementation and use. Governments do not yet have a consistent means evaluating the impact of such systems on fundamental Human Rights. The goal of this session is to help better identify potential risks that may arise in connection with including certain AI/machine learning activities may impact human rights.