A delegation from the Oman Human Rights Commission (OHRC), headed by Professor Rashid bin Hamad Al-Balushi, Chairperson of the Commission, participated in the International Conference on “Responsible AI and Elections,” held in Ottawa, Canada. The Conference addressed the opportunities and challenges associated with these technologies and their implications for human rights.
During the Conference, the Chairperson delivered a presentation highlighting the progress made in integrating artificial intelligence technologies into the electoral system in the Sultanate of Oman and the regional and international recognition this experience has received. He also highlighted the role of the Commission, as an independent national human rights institution, in monitoring elections in the Sultanate of Oman and actively contributing to the promotion of integrity and transparency, as well as ensuring the protection and safeguarding of all rights associated with participation in the electoral process.
He further emphasized the importance of national institutions keeping pace with rapid digital transformations and addressing the emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence applications. He stressed the need for the use of such technologies in electoral processes to be governed by clear frameworks and safeguards based on transparency, accountability and human oversight, while ensuring non-discrimination and the protection of data and privacy.
