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In a speech delivered during the delegation session at the Ninth Global Iftaa Conference, Dr. Mohammed bin Aida, Yemeni Minister of Awqaf and Guidance, highlighted a fundamental ethical issue regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its effects on human values and the role of individuals in society. The Minister emphasized that although AI presents new opportunities and significant technological advancements, it raises growing concerns about its potential negative impact on marginalized groups and communities less equipped to adapt to this technology.
Ethical Concerns Surrounding Artificial Intelligence
Dr. bin Aida pointed out that AI could threaten human presence in certain fields, undermining the role of individuals and adversely affecting human values. He expressed increasing anxiety about the future of upcoming generations and how technology may shape their lives. The Minister called for the establishment of a clear vision and legal frameworks grounded in the values and principles of Islam, aimed at maximizing the benefits of the AI revolution without compromising human and ethical values.
Call for Legal and Ethical Frameworks
The Minister urged that the conference, held under the patronage of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, should serve as a first step toward creating legal and ethical frameworks that ensure the protection and empowerment of communities, securing a better future for generations to come. He expressed his eagerness to hear from specialized experts about the most pressing ethical deviations arising from AI applications and potential solutions to address these issues.
Global Efforts in Technology Ethics
In this context, the Yemeni Minister of Awqaf drew attention to initiatives from the Vatican in this domain, referencing the Rome Call signed in 2020. He noted that the Rome Summit at the beginning of 2023 called for adherence to six ethical principles for AI designers: ensuring systems are interpretable, inclusive, unbiased, replicable, while holding humans fully accountable for any decisions facilitated by AI.
Need for Updating Standards and Commitments
In conclusion, the Minister stressed the importance of periodically updating standards and commitments related to AI to enhance the ethical dimension, emphasizing respect for human values and individual dignity. He expressed his gratitude to the Arab Republic of Egypt for hosting this significant conference, commending its organization and the efforts made to address pressing issues impacting the Muslim world and humanity at large.
This call for the establishment of ethical and legal frameworks for AI represents an important step toward achieving a balance between technological advancement and the preservation of human values, underscoring the urgent need for further studies and discussions in this vital field.
Source: Egyptian Fatwa House
