ICRC Emphasizes Ethical AI Use in Humanitarian Action Amidst Digitalization Progress
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is actively engaging with emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance humanitarian efforts while addressing associated risks. A symposium on the Responsible Use of Technology in Humanitarian Action, co-organized with Tsinghua University's Center for International Security and Strategy, highlighted discussions on applying AI ethically in humanitarian contexts. The ICRC views AI as a tool that can either improve or complicate humanitarian actions depending on its implementation. The organization has developed an AI Policy in 2024 to guide its principled and ethical use of AI in operations, such as improving logistics and healthcare delivery. Despite the potential benefits, the ICRC stresses the importance of thorough risk assessments and mitigation measures, especially concerning sensitive data collected from beneficiaries, to uphold the 'do no harm' principle. The ICRC collaborates globally with governments, the private sec...