New guidelines from civil society to counter AI-driven discrimination

An increasing number of sectors across society are being impacted by artificial intelligence, driving efficiency and creating value in ways that were previously unimaginable. At the same time, there is a risk that algorithms may reinforce existing social injustices. Given its focus on marginalized groups and sensitive issues, civil society has an even greater responsibility to ensure the responsible use of AI.

These new guidelines serve as an important reminder that technological development must go hand in hand with societal values.

A toolkit

The purpose is to provide civil society organizations with the practical knowledge and tools necessary to implement AI in a way that strengthens their mission.

Carl Norling Markai, Project Manager at AI Sweden, emphasizes the importance of this work:

He adds:

“This is an issue that will become increasingly important for politicians and policymakers involved in AI regulation and governance in Sweden.”

Collaboration between civil society, AI Sweden, and Google

The guidelines were developed within the framework of the Civil Society Forum for Responsible AI – an initiative from AI Sweden with support from Google.org. AI Sweden invited and shaped the working group, consisting of 12 organizations, held meetings, and arranged workshops.

The forum has gathered a diversity of perspectives from organizations such as Funktionsrätt Sverige (Disability Rights Sweden), Riksidrottsförbundet (Swedish Sports Confederation), Svenska Röda Korset (Swedish Red Cross), Bris (Children's Rights in Society), and Rädda Barnen (Save the Children), which has contributed to developing guidelines that are relevant and applicable across the entire sector. The guidelines compile frameworks and tools, identify the unique ethical challenges faced by civil society, and culminate in concrete recommendations for responsible and ethical AI implementation.

"The practical guidance on how to approach and apply AI in a responsible and constructive way has been extremely valuable. I believe that's what we, as an organization, will benefit from the most moving forward," says Martin Tägtström, CIO at the Swedish Red Cross.