AI Governance: Human Rights in the Balance As Tech Giants and Authoritarians Converge
As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the world, the control and governance of this powerful technology have become urgent priorities. Algorithms currently dictate life-and-death decisions, exemplified by AI-powered surveillance tracking journalists in Serbia and the use of autonomous weapons showcased in military parades in Beijing. This reality highlights profound implications for human rights and governance.
Governance Failings
In a notable development, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish new international mechanisms aimed at overseeing AI technology. This resolution includes the formation of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and a Global Dialogue on AI Governance. While this represents progress, the negotiation process illustrated significant geopolitical tensions.
China has introduced its Global AI Governance Initiative, advocating for a state-led model that excludes civil society from governance discussions and positions itself as a leader for the global south. In contrast, the USA, particularly under the Trump administration, has adopted a technonationalism approach, using AI for economic leverage and withdrawing from multilateral cooperation.
The European Union (EU) has taken a different path by implementing the world’s first comprehensive AI Act, set to take effect in August 2026. This act introduces a risk-based regulatory framework that bans AI systems classified as presenting ‘unacceptable’ risks. However, it also allows limited use of live facial recognition technology, which raises concerns among human rights advocates.
Critical Concerns
One of the most pressing issues is the potential for AI technologies to exacerbate existing biases and injustices. For instance, while emotion recognition technologies are banned in educational institutions, they remain permissible for law enforcement, putting marginalized communities at risk of surveillance and discrimination.
Furthermore, the environmental impact of AI is a growing concern. Interactions with AI systems consume significantly more electricity than traditional internet activities, contributing to a substantial increase in carbon emissions. The International Energy Agency projects that global electricity consumption by data centers will more than double by 2030, driven largely by AI advancements.
Need for Champions in AI Governance
The current landscape reveals a patchwork of regional regulations, inadequate international resolutions, and insufficient industry self-regulation. This situation underscores the necessity for a more robust governance framework that prioritizes human rights and accountability over corporate interests.
To effectively address the challenges posed by AI, it is essential to establish binding agreements on lethal autonomous weapons systems and close loopholes in existing legislation such as the EU’s AI Act. Coordinated efforts among governments are crucial to counterbalance the power wielded by major tech companies in AI development.
In conclusion, the international community must urgently reform AI governance mechanisms to ensure that human rights remain at the forefront of technological advancements. The responsibility lies not only with governments but also with civil society to advocate for a balanced approach that champions human rights over narrow national interests and corporate profits.
