Doha, Qatar — Over 1,200 global leaders, experts, policymakers, and human rights advocates gathered in Doha on 27–28 May 2025 for the International Conference on “Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future,” that took place at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. 

Organized by the National Human Rights Committee of Qatar, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the National Cybersecurity Agency, and other international partners, the conference served as a pioneering platform for dialogue at the intersection of technology and human rights. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping societies, unlocking opportunities for innovation and growth. However, its rapid development also raises urgent questions about privacy, bias, surveillance, and accountability. This conference examined the promises and perils of AI through a human rights lens to establish shared pathways for ethical and inclusive AI governance. 

Several themes were discussed, such as AI and Privacy: Surveillance, data protection, and the right to personal privacy, algorithmic bias and discrimination: addressing systemic inequalities, freedom of Expression: AI’s role in content moderation and free speech, democratic integrity and AI: the role of AI in shaping democratic discourse and participation, legal and ethical frameworks for responsible AI, and AI for good: leveraging technology to support human rights, justice, and other areas. 

"The unethical uses of artificial intelligence raise numerous concerns, including the exacerbation of bias and discrimination, the deepening of the digital divide, violations of the right to privacy, and increased unemployment due to job loss. There are also concerns about the serious impacts of certain systems that pose a direct threat to the right to life. Accordingly, there is an urgent need to adopt a human rights-based approach in all AI systems to ensure transparency, oversight, evaluation, review, accountability, and the provision of remedies in all cases of violations resulting from the use of artificial intelligence." H.E. Ms. Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson, Qatar National Human Rights Committee 

“While we impose strict regulation and safety standards on cars, on medicines, on air traffic – even on fast food – the development and deployment of AI is still largely left to the businesses that produce it, and the clients they serve. This threatens us all. The protection of human life, dignity and rights must be paramount. AI systems that are just, and benefit everyone – including future generations – must be grounded firmly in the core of our universal human rights values and law.” H.E. Mr. Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights 

“This conference brings together global experts and stakeholders to explore how AI is transforming our societies—and what that means for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Over the next two days, we’ll hear diverse perspectives on both the opportunities and risks of AI, from innovation and public service delivery to issues like discrimination, privacy, and accountability. The goal is to foster inclusive dialogue, share best practices, and propose concrete recommendations for rights-based AI governance that advances dignity, equality, and justice for all.” H.E. Dr. Mary Kawar, UNDP Arab States Regional Hub Director 

The event concluded with “Doha Declaration on AI and Human Rights,” accompanied by a set of actionable recommendations, best practices, and a comprehensive post-conference report aimed at guiding policymakers, technologists, and civil society actors. 

The conference aligns with Qatar’s National AI Strategy and its broader commitment to human-centered technological advancement, as underscored by Qatar National Vision 2030.