The Council of Europe's Intergovernmental Steering Committee on Media and the Information Society has officially adopted guidelines for the responsible implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalistic practices. The guidelines, initially released on November 30, are designed to offer practical guidance to news media organizations, states, technology providers, and digital platforms to ensure AI systems are used in a manner that aligns with the rule of law and human rights principles.


Key Points:

  • Responsible Implementation: The guidelines focus on the responsible implementation of AI in various stages of journalistic production, covering decisions to use AI, the acquisition of AI tools by media organizations, and the integration of AI into newsrooms.

  • Effect on Audiences and Society: Recognizing the impact of AI on audiences and society, the guidelines propose specific responsibilities for technology providers, platforms, and member states to ensure a human rights-compliant public communication sector.

  • Practical Guidance: The guidelines provide practical guidance for actors involved in journalistic practices, offering insights into the ethical and responsible use of AI systems in the news media sector.

  • The Council of Europe's Role: The Council of Europe, comprised of 46 European countries and based in Strasbourg, France, plays a significant role in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The adoption of these guidelines underscores the organization's commitment to addressing the ethical challenges posed by AI in journalism.

Implications and Outlook: The adoption of guidelines by the Council of Europe reflects a collective effort to establish a framework for responsible AI implementation in journalism. As AI continues to evolve and gain prominence in the media industry, these guidelines aim to guide stakeholders in upholding ethical standards, protecting human rights, and promoting a rule of law-based communication sector.

Conclusion: The Council of Europe's guidelines for the responsible implementation of AI in journalism mark a step forward in addressing the challenges associated with the use of AI systems in media practices. The guidance provided is expected to influence the behavior of news media organizations, states, technology providers, and platforms, fostering a commitment to ethical and responsible AI use in the public communication sector. The adoption of such guidelines contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the intersection of AI and journalism, emphasizing the importance of aligning technological advancements with human rights principles.


(SAVANNAH FORTIS, COINTELEGRAPH, 2023)