Children and Regulation of Artificial Intelligence

This article highlights the urgent need to consider children’s human rights in the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) at global, regional and domestic levels. It emphasises the importance of raising awareness about how AI impacts children and their rights. AI is increasingly integrated into children’s daily activities, from learning and playing to interacting with state services like healthcare, social welfare and criminal justice. There are significant concerns about AI’s effects on fundamental rights such as privacy and freedom of expression, legal interests like intellectual property, and broader societal values such as creativity and empathy. Despite substantial efforts to regulate AI globally, there are notable gaps in addressing the most intrusive forms of AI, particularly regarding children’s human rights. The article argues that regulations centred on children’s human rights would effectively mitigate AI-related risks for children, while allowing for innovation with appropriate safeguards and prioritising the child’s best interests. It advocates for a regulatory approach that involves children’s participation and considers their evolving capacities, rather than relying on protectionist and paternalistic methods.