Ethics and Artificial Intelligence: who is in charge?, Dr Petru Dumitriu

Dr Petru Dumitriu
DiploFoundation, Switzerland/Malta
Senior Fellow and Lecturer on Multilateral Diplomacy

Purpose: This study aims to analyse the perspectives of the United Nations system, European Union and other international organizations on the ethical aspects of the use of AI tools.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper will explore the attempts define the main ethics challenges that may accompany the massive use of AI as reflected in the documents adopted and the practices encouraged by international organizations, in particular by the European Union and some United Nations funds and specialized agencies with competence in dealing with digital technologies.

Findings: As the United Nations does not have its own capacity to develop AI tools, it is playing a considerable role in defining principles, limits, and possible rules on the use of AI and stimulating international cooperation and a coherent approach of the dynamic expansion of that particular technology. However, the regulations adopted by the European Union on AI may influence international cooperation at global level.

Originality: The paper identifies the most significant actions taken at international level, and analyse their similarities, differences, and neglected areas in dealing with the preservation of a strong ethical dimension and the use of AI in service of the public good.

Implications: The paper will help a better knowledge and understanding of the most meaningful conceptual advances in defining and disseminating the principles of ethics among the members of the intergovernmental organizations and among the many stakeholders involved in developing, promoting, and using AI instruments.