Source: Council of Europe

The Council of Europe has issued new recommendations aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in prisons and probation services. The recommendations focus on ensuring that AI technologies used in these systems respect fundamental human rights and dignity. As AI becomes more integrated into correctional settings—whether through risk assessment tools, monitoring systems, or administrative processes—the need for strict ethical guidelines has grown.

The Council emphasized that AI tools used in prisons must not violate the rights of prisoners or probationers, particularly regarding privacy, fairness, and transparency. These tools should only be used in ways that enhance, rather than undermine, the dignity and rights of individuals in the correctional system. The recommendations also call for AI systems to be subject to regular oversight and evaluation to prevent abuses or biases that could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

The article highlights that while AI has the potential to improve the efficiency and fairness of prison and probation systems, it also carries significant risks if not properly regulated. The recommendations are part of the Council of Europe’s broader efforts to ensure that AI technologies uphold human rights across various sectors.