Argentina has announced a controversial plan to use artificial intelligence (AI) to predict future crimes.
The initiative, spearheaded by President Javier Milei, aims to leverage machine learning algorithms to analyse historical crime data and anticipate criminal activities. However, the move has sparked significant concerns over privacy and human rights implications.
Key Takeaways
- Argentina's government plans to use AI to predict future crimes.
- The initiative is led by President Javier Milei and involves the creation of a new AI unit within the Ministry of Security.
- Human rights organisations and experts have raised concerns about privacy and potential misuse of the technology.
The AI Initiative
The newly established Artificial Intelligence Applied to Security Unit will operate under Argentina's Ministry of Security. This unit will utilise machine learning algorithms to analyse historical crime data, aiming to predict and prevent future crimes. Additionally, the unit will employ facial recognition software to identify wanted individuals and monitor social media for potential threats.
The government believes that the use of AI will significantly enhance the efficiency of law enforcement agencies, allowing for quicker and more accurate responses to threats and emergencies. The initiative also includes real-time analysis of security camera footage and aerial surveillance using drones.
Privacy and Human Rights Concerns
Despite the government's assurances, the AI initiative has raised alarm among human rights organisations and experts. Amnesty International Argentina has warned that large-scale surveillance could infringe on freedom of expression, as people may self-censor if they believe their online activities are being monitored.
The Argentine Center for Studies on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information has also expressed concerns. They argue that similar technologies have historically been used to profile academics, journalists, politicians, and activists, posing a significant threat to privacy and freedom of expression.
Historical Context and Government Stance
Argentina's history of state repression adds another layer of concern to this initiative. During the 1976-83 dictatorship, an estimated 30,000 people were forcibly disappeared, and thousands were tortured. This dark history makes the current government's move towards increased surveillance particularly contentious.
President Milei, known for his hardline stance on crime, has defended the initiative, stating that it will operate within the current legislative framework, including the Personal Information Protection Act. The government has also cited similar AI applications in countries like the United States, China, and the United Kingdom as precedents for their approach.
Expert Opinions and Future Implications
Experts remain sceptical about the effectiveness and ethical implications of predictive policing technologies. Andrew Ferguson, a professor of law at American University, noted that it is challenging to find social media predictive policing technologies that work effectively at scale. Previous attempts at predictive policing have often resulted in poor accuracy and have raised concerns about bias and discrimination.
In conclusion, while Argentina's move to use AI for crime prediction aims to enhance public safety, it has ignited a debate over privacy, human rights, and the ethical use of technology in law enforcement. The long-term implications of this initiative remain to be seen, as the country navigates the complex balance between security and civil liberties.
Sources
- Argentina will use AI to ‘predict future crimes’ but experts worry for citizens’ rights | Argentina | The Guardian, The Guardian.
- Javier Milei’s government will monitor social media with AI to ‘predict future crimes’ | International | EL PAÍS English, EL PAÍS English.
- Argentina plans to predict future crimes with AI software • The Register, The Register.
- Real-life Minority Report: Argentina will use AI to 'predict future crimes' | Daily Mail Online, Daily Mail.
