The National Human Rights Council (CNDH) launched national consultations on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the impact of its potential uses on human rights.

In this context, the CNDH organized, on Wednesday 28 April 2020, its first online seminar on "Artificial Intelligence and Digital Citizenship".

These consultations are part of the CNDH's preoccupation with the possibilities given to algorithms and AI to make decisions that have one or more impacts on human beings’ lives, stated Ms. Amina Bouayach, CNDH Chairperson.

The CNDH engages in this international reflection on AI and human rights, starting from four fundamental determinants: (1) Promote technological development and the use of AI in Morocco, in line with the approach of human rights and the values of a democratic society, (2) Study the impacts of the use and development of AI on human rights and its treatment, (3) Hold stakeholders accountable on the uses of AI, (4) Enable human beings to benefit from the possibilities, opportunities and advantages of using AI in full respect of human rights.

The use of AI in relation to human rights raises actors’ concerns based on potential impacts of certain uses and even potential violations of fundamental rights and freedoms (particularly privacy, personal data protection, freedom of expression, the right to participate in the democratic process, protection against influential people and disinformation ...).

The CNDH launched this process of consultations with stakeholders while being aware of the opportunities, benefits, challenges, and possible impacts and uses of AI. This process aims to follow the development of AI in Morocco within the context of achieving a balance between technological progress, on the one hand, and the protection and promotion of human rights on the other hand, stated Amina Bouayach, CNDH President.

To be noted, Mr. Mounir Bensalah, CNDH Secretary-General, moderated the CNDH’s first consultation meeting. Moroccan and foreign stakeholders representing institutions, universities, schools, centers and enterprises involved in scientific research related to new technologies and the use of AI took part in this event.