Modern technology presents great utility and promise, including for human rights. The development of the Internet has widened access to knowledge, while new media platforms have given activists fast ways to organise communities and share messages at scale. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, may significantly expand the availability and quality of data that informs policy and healthcare decisions for the benefit of society. Their proponents argue that these technologies will create new opportunities, increase efficiency, and help maximise human potential.

At the same time, rapid developments in artificial intelligence, automation, and robotics raise questions about their impacts on human rights and the future of work. The use of machines to increase productivity risks resulting in heightened social inequality through downward pressure on wages and the loss of jobs. The growth of the “gig economy,” facilitated by new technologies, has contributed to changing the nature of work by increasing the availability of flexible positions that provide opportunities for some while negatively affecting the livelihoods of others. And in the background, mass data collection can lead to violations of the right to privacy and inhibit free and fair societies.   

The extent of these impacts remains unknown. Human rights organisations are exploring how to ensure that advances in technology benefit all people and do not exacerbate inequality for marginalised populations.