29-05-2025
New Zealand official urges global AI framework to protect human rights
Ashraf Siddiqui
Doha
Chief Human Rights Commissioner of New Zealand Dr. Stephen Laurence Rainbow has underscored the significance of the discussions that took place at the recently held two-day International Conference on AI and Human Rights in Doha.
Talking to Qatar Tribune on the sidelines of the conference, he noted that the forum offered a nuanced examination of AI's promise and the challenges it poses to human rights and social stability, emphasising the importance of international cooperation, particularly for countries like New Zealand, which may be geographically distant but are eager to forge meaningful partnerships to address pressing global challenges.
Dr. Rainbow noted that while AI is already influencing various facets of life worldwide, there remains a gap in developing robust frameworks to balance its opportunities and risks.
He highlighted the need for a comprehensive global framework to address the human rights implications of AI.
'This conference is significant because it brings people together to discuss one of the greatest challenges of our time — artificial intelligence and technological disruption,' he said.
Dr. Rainbow praised the conference organisers, particularly Qatar's National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), for their excellent preparation and dedication to ensuring the event's success, calling it an essential contribution to the global conversation on human rights in the era of AI.
He also noted that the recent visit of the Qatar Human Rights Committee to New Zealand highlighted the potential for ongoing collaboration in safeguarding human rights and leveraging AI in a responsible manner.
Reflecting on a panel discussion he participated in, Dr. Rainbow observed that it offered a balanced exploration of AI's positive impacts, such as in healthcare and education, alongside the serious risks to personal privacy and other fundamental rights.
He expressed deep gratitude to Qatar's NHRC for their warm hospitality and for fostering meaningful dialogue that inspires future collaborations and thoughtful responses to the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
This event marked Dr. Rainbow's first visit to Qatar, and he took the opportunity to explore some of the city's cultural highlights, including the Museum of Islamic Art and the vibrant Souq Waqif.
He was particularly struck by the Souq's energetic atmosphere, bustling with food vendors and serving as a major wholesale market that beautifully reflects Qatar's rich traditions.
