Project Theme: Human Rights Dimensions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance  and UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (Challenges and  Opportunities in Africa) 

Date: 20th March 2025  

Venue: Hybrid  

Physical Venue – National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, Abuja HQ Organised by the International Network for Corporate Social Responsibility (IN-CSR)  Partners:  

1. The United Nations Working Group on Business and Human Rights, Switzerland 
2. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)
3. Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) 
4. National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (NHRC) 
5. ⁠Paradigm Initiative

Sponsors: Public and Private Organisations 

Background 

Artificial intelligence (AI) significantly impacts the collection, use, storage, and disposal of  information by enabling automated data gathering, advanced analysis capabilities,  efficient storage solutions, and intelligent data deletion mechanisms, leading to more  streamlined processes while raising concerns about key human rights issues including  privacy and data security due to the vast amount of data collected and analysed. It can  also have an indirect impact as a result of human oversight or inaccurate data source such  as unintended discrimination against a gender due to inadequate machine learning data 

Therefore, the human rights dimensions of artificial intelligence (AI) encompass various  critical aspects, including ethical considerations, the impact of AI technologies on  individual rights, and the necessity for regulatory frameworks to protect these rights. This  intersection creates a pressing concern in our increasingly digital world. 

The human rights dimension of AI governance thus requires a holistic approach, integrating  ethical considerations and legal frameworks to promote technologies that are beneficial,  inclusive, and equitable.

1. Sub Themes  

This event is set to deepen our knowledge on some key areas of intersection,  including: 

1. Understanding the Intersections between the use of AI and Potential Human  Rights Violations.  
2. Ethical AI Development, Governance Frameworks, and Cyber Security.                                                                             C. Public Awareness and Involvement on AI processes.  
3. The Duty of the State to Protect: The Role of National Governments in Protecting  Human Rights through AI Governance.  
4. The Corporate Responsibility to Respect: The Role of Organizations to  Implement Ethical AI Processes 
5. Access to Remedy: National and International Instruments that provides for  Remedial Processes  
6. Evolving AI Technologies that Affect Human Rights.  

Our expert panel will also explore ethical implications, regulatory frameworks, and best  practices for ensuring that AI technologies uphold and promote human dignity. 

2. Challenges And Opportunities in line with the UNGPs  

The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) provide a framework  for states and businesses to prevent, mitigate, and address adverse human rights impacts  linked to business activities. While they represent a significant step towards promoting  respect for human rights in business, their implementation comes with both challenges  and opportunities that will enhance stakeholder relationships. By viewing human rights as  integral to any business strategy, companies can navigate the complexities of the global  marketplace while contributing to a more just and equitable society. Embracing the  UNGPs not only helps mitigate risks but also unlocks the potential for innovation and  growth in a rapidly changing world.  

CHALLENGES:  

1. Awareness of UNGPs and understanding their relevance  
2. Closing the gap between implementation and compliance  
3. Resource constraints and supply chain complexities  
4. Regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagements, and measuring impact 

OPPORTUNITIES  

1. Enhanced Reputation and Trust, Building Partnerships, Innovations, and  Collaboration 
2. Risk Management, Market Access, and Investment.  
3. Adaptation to Changing Regulation, Employee Engagement, and Retention                                                                   D. Global Influence and Leadership.  

As always with our events, the forum will be a leading platform for business leaders,  academics and regulators to discuss the intrinsic link between public policy and corporate  behaviour; a place to identify solutions that integrate human rights principles into  corporate AI governance and core business practice, a networking opportunity to build  relationships with key partners, a means to gain reputational benefits from being involved. 

The one-day workshop will recognise innovative approaches being implemented by leading  organizations, regulators and feature thought leaders; and research on a diverse range of  AI related BHR issues facing the government and business in Nigeria. It brings together  representatives from various industries and leading businesses to share their experiences,  challenges and ideas in this area and will replace IN-CSR’s annual BHR Conference for this  year, 2025.  

3. Communique  

At the end of the event, a conference communique will be issued which will serve as an  official statement summarizing the key discussions, decisions, and action points agreed  upon by participants at a conference, essentially acting as a public record of the event’s  outcomes and outlining the collective stance on the discussed topics. It will include calls  to action for further implementation by relevant stakeholders. 

4. Call for Sponsorship 

We kindly solicit for your financial support in order to make this event a great success. We  will also be delighted to discuss other recognition opportunities before, during and after  the event, as this has recently become a topic of interest across the world.  

For further enquires or to speak to us regarding sponsorship, please contact  info@incsr.org 

or call us on +234 (0) 915 558 8466; 810 861 0473  

www.incsr.org

Click Here to download full Conference Programme