ESTONIA | Ombudspersons and their advisers from 18 countries gathered in Estonia to discuss AI and Human Rights

This week, ombudspersons and their advisers from 18 countries across Europe, Africa, and Asia convened in Estonia for a two-day training seminar focused on the technological, legal, and ethical dimensions of AI in administrative decisions and ombuds investigations. As AI evolves rapidly, ensuring its alignment with human rights, the rule of law, and democratic values in decision-making processes is becoming increasingly important.

Kertti Pilvik from the Estonian Chancellor of Justice’s Office stressed the need for ombudspersons to engage proactively with AI, given its growing relevance. "As legal professionals, we must deepen our understanding of AI's technical aspects to carry out our responsibilities effectively. Without knowing how AI operates, meaningful oversight becomes difficult."

Kholeka Gcaleka, Public Protector of South Africa, noted the seminar’s value in integrating legal and technical perspectives. "It provided valuable insights into how AI can support our investigative work and helped us begin addressing AI-related cases."

The training seminar was organised by the Chancellor of Justice of Estonia and the e-Governance Academy, with support from the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI).

Source: Chancellor of Justice, Estonia