UN Calls for Human Rights Compliance in AI Use

Published Date : 20/06/2025 

The United Nations (UN) Working Group on Business and Human Rights has emphasized the need for states and businesses to ensure that the procurement and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems align with international human rights standards. 

At the 59th session of the Human Rights Council on Thursday, the United Nations (UN) Working Group on Business and Human Rights stated that the procurement and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems by states and businesses must comply with international human rights standards, warning that failure to do so could lead to serious human rights violations.

UN experts noted a significant increase in the procurement and deployment of AI systems across the public and private sectors globally. They presented a report detailing the importance of adopting the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights as the foundation for AI regulation and cautioned that without an adequate regulatory framework and due diligence, the use of AI could adversely affect human rights, leading to discrimination, privacy violations, and free speech restrictions. Experts urged both public and private sectors to conduct human rights assessments regarding the impact of AI and ensure transparency and accountability in the event of violations.

Examining legal frameworks, experts observed that while some countries have enacted binding legislation on AI and its potential threats—such as the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act—the current regulatory framework remains fragmented and lacks uniform standards and definitions.

The report offered recommendations for integrating the UN Guiding Principles into the regulation, procurement, and deployment of AI by nations, businesses, and other stakeholders. For governing bodies, the UN group recommended implementing a legal and policy framework on AI that adheres to a human rights approach. This includes prohibiting AI systems incompatible with human rights, such as those used for mass surveillance, real-time facial recognition, and predictive policing. Additionally, states should promote cooperation in AI governance and ensure representation of countries in the Global South. In cases of human rights abuses, experts advised states to provide access to judicial and non-judicial remedy mechanisms.

For businesses, the UN experts emphasized the importance of conducting rigorous human rights due diligence and establishing accessible grievance mechanisms for individuals affected by AI-related abuses.

The rapid evolution of AI and its benefits have led to its widespread use in various fields, including defense and communication. However, this utility comes with serious challenges regarding the impacts of AI on the rule of law, ethics, and human rights. In April, UN experts expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in armed conflicts and called for a slowdown in AI development. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights also warned about the risks of weaponizing AI to spread disinformation and restrict press freedom.

These challenges have sparked debate about the potential harms AI can inflict on societies, including impacts on the judicial system, political opinions, information integrity, and personal data privacy. One proposed response to address these growing challenges is to create special regulations that enable effective governance of AI without impeding technological innovation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What are the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights?

A: The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights provide a framework for states and businesses to respect and protect human rights in their operations, including the procurement and deployment of AI systems.

Q: Why is it important to regulate AI according to human rights standards?

A: Regulating AI according to human rights standards ensures that the use of AI does not lead to violations of privacy, discrimination, or other human rights abuses, thereby protecting individuals and societies.

Q: What are some examples of AI systems that could be incompatible with human rights?

A: AI systems that could be incompatible with human rights include those used for mass surveillance, real-time facial recognition, and predictive policing, which can lead to privacy violations and discrimination.

Q: How can businesses ensure they are not violating human rights through AI use?

A: Businesses can ensure they are not violating human rights through AI use by conducting rigorous human rights due diligence, establishing accessible grievance mechanisms, and ensuring transparency and accountability in their AI operations.

Q: What role do international organizations play in AI governance?

A: International organizations, such as the UN, play a crucial role in AI governance by providing guidelines, recommendations, and a platform for global cooperation to ensure that AI development and deployment respect human rights and ethical standards. 

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