Dual Roles and Rights Implications: The Unsettled Dynamics of AI Use in Relation to Minoritised Communities

Abstract

This paper explores the volatile relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) tools and minoritised communities, addressing the primary research question: In what ways does the deployment of AI technologies in both democratic and authoritarian contexts affect minoritised groups, particularly regarding bias, discrimination, human rights violations, and the preservation or erosion of cultural and linguistic Identities? The study utilises a mixed-methods approach, integrating content analysis of international human rights instruments and relevant scholarly literature with case studies, such as the implementation of AI-driven surveillance on the Uyghur community in China or various instances of language revitalisation supported by AI tools. The research underscores the dual nature of AI applications. On the one hand, AI tools can be employed for oppressive measures, including ethnic profiling, extensive surveillance, and cultural oppression, as demonstrated in the Uyghur case. Conversely, AI offers promising avenues for preserving the identity of minoritised communities, particularly through language revitalisation and cultural preservation, fostering inclusivity and empowering marginalised populations within digital environments. This study aims to contribute to the underexplored intersection of AI and minoritised communities by presenting an interdisciplinary perspective that connects AI development with the protection of minority rights. The findings emphasise the necessity of a human rights-based framework in AI design and implementation, highlighting the potential for AI to enhance the empowerment of minoritised communities while also recognising the dangers of exploitation in authoritarian regimes.