Technology increasingly permeates every aspect of our lives, from the use of big data to information and communication technologies (ICTs) to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. These developments are often framed around issues such as efficiency, speed and innovation, but for minorities, indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups there are often very different forces at play – the replication of existing patterns of exclusion in new forms.
Technology increasingly permeates every aspect of our lives, from the use of big data to information and communication technologies (ICTs) to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. These developments are often framed around issues such as efficiency, speed and innovation, but for minorities, indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups there are often very different forces at play – the replication of existing patterns of exclusion in new forms.
Mainstream human rights for all into the development and dissemination of technologies, with a particular focus on the barriers that minorities and indigenous peoples face.
Promote a diverse and expansive approach to technology development that enables the creation of a wide range of products suitable for different communities.
Ensure accountability and independent oversight.
Establish and enforce clear protocols on the collection, retention and use of personal data by governments, companies and other actors.
Abstain from imposing blanket internet shutdowns in the name of security, especially for protracted periods.
Focus on improving minority and indigenous inclusion, not only as end users of technologies, but also upstream in their design and production.
Conduct human rights impact assessments as a necessary first step whenever digital technologies are being considered for adoption by public authorities.
Scrutinize the use of AI and automation in decision-making, with a focus on ensuring transparency and non-discrimination.
Enshrine universal access to the internet as a right for all citizens, with a positive emphasis on accessibility and safety rather than censorship and surveillance.
Businesses
Recognize that they have a responsibility to respect human rights and apply the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Establish clear and transparent protocols for content posted on social media platforms, especially concerning hate speech.
Photo: Portrait of an Oromo man in Sheikh Hussein shrine in Oromia, Ethiopia / Eric Lafforgue/Alamy
