Over the two days, participants strengthened their practical understanding of AI and explored its potential application in the day-to-day work of the Ombudsman’s Office. The programme covered AI fundamentals, responsible and ethical use of AI, prompt engineering, international human rights standards and human rights impact assessment (HRIA). 

“Artificial intelligence presents significant opportunities to make human rights protection more effective, accessible and responsive. At the same time, its use requires strong safeguards to prevent discrimination, protect privacy and ensure accountability. Building the capacity of human rights institutions is therefore essential to ensuring that AI serves people and human rights”, said Ainura Bekkoenova, Policy Specialist, Rule of Law, Security and Human Rights, UNDP Regional Hub for Europe and Central Asia.

A strong emphasis was placed on practical application. Through case-based exercises, participants explored how AI could support the management and categorisation of complaints, identification of trends, summarisation of cases and preparation of responses. 

At the same time, the training addressed the risks that can arise when AI is introduced into institutional processes. Using human rights impact assessment approaches, participants examined who may be affected by AI-assisted processes, whether certain groups could be disproportionately impacted, what safeguards should be put in place, and how individuals can challenge decisions involving AI.