PRESS RELEASE

OSCE roundtable and expert meeting in Vienna – the impact of artificial intelligence on freedom of expression

VIENNA, 10 March 2020 – The roundtable and first expert meeting on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on freedom expression, organized by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, concluded today in Vienna.  

The roundtable provided a platform to examine and discuss the challenges and contributions that machine-learning technologies, such as AI, can bring to freedom of expression and media freedom. Representatives of the participating States, together with experts, discussed the impact that algorithms and AI have in shaping and arbitrating information online, and the concerns regarding possible infringements on free speech.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, stressed the importance of understanding AI’s potential and its impact on the future of human rights, particularly freedom of expression and freedom of the media. “AI can benefit societies in various positive ways. However, there is also a genuine risk that such technologies have a detrimental impact on fundamental freedoms,” said Désir. “When driven by commercial, political or state interests, the use of AI could seriously jeopardize human rights, in particular the freedom of expression and media pluralism.” 

A meeting with the experts, in order to develop a roadmap on how to move the project forward, followed the roundtable. During the meeting, experts discussed a draft paper on the topic published by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media. The draft paper outlines the main characteristics of AI processes behind content removal and curation; challenges to media pluralism and diversity; as well as the impact of surveillance on freedom of expression. The draft paper will serve as the basis for discussions on developing a strategy paper and future recommendations for participating States and other relevant stakeholders. 

“It is vital to understand the policies and practices employed by tech companies in the development and use of AI. At the same time, we must assist governments and legislators in developing clear and human-rights-friendly policies, including for transparency and accountability, in the use of these technologies,” underlined Désir.  

The events set the stage for the Representative’s future activities on the impact of artificial intelligence and freedom of expression, including a conference on the topic later this year.

The full draft paper is available here: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/447829?download=true

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.

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