A HUMAN RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH TO THE USE AND REGULATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE – AN AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This article aims to describe the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on human rights, analyze the use and regulation of AI in some African countries and propose a human rights-based approach to such use and regulation, among other recommendations. Whereas there is no doubt that artificial intelligence (AI) has enhanced technological innovation and contributed tremendously to addressing societal and global challenges, it has however, also disrupted certain legal, social and economic systems. In many ways, it has also had a negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights. This article begins with a conceptual context that focuses on the term artificial intelligence. It then proceeds to analyze how artificial intelligence impacts on the protection and enjoyment of several human rights, including civil and political rights on the one hand and socio-economic rights on the other. This is followed by a brief discussion of the various artificial intelligence strategies, policies and relevant legislation in some African countries. It is argued that because of the importance of human rights, such strategies, policies and regulation must incorporate human rights norms and standards. This calls for a human rights-based approach. The novelty of this study lies in the fact that artificial intelligence is a new technological development. Many people are not familiar with this, especially in Africa. There are not many studies conducted on its impact on human rights. Therefore, the paper concludes with recommendations on how best African countries can use and regulate artificial intelligence, including adopting a human based-approach.