Resettlement by algorithm: Can artificial intelligence uphold human rights?

Abstract

This article focuses on the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the resettlement of refugees and its implications for their fundamental rights. Resettlement is the process of selecting refugees and transferring them to a third country that agrees to admit them permanently. While AI has the potential to improve efficiency and effectiveness in resettlement processes, such as matching refugees with suitable resettlement countries and places, it also poses various risks and raises concerns about human rights violations. The article examines the current and potential uses of AI throughout the resettlement process, including the selection and referral of refugees for resettlement and the facilitation and improvement of integration. The article then analyses the potential impact of AI on fundamental rights. The article concludes by arguing for a cautious approach to using AI in resettlement processes. It emphasises that the use of AI in assessing refugee inclusion and exclusion for resettlement, as well as matching them with different resettlement states, could conflict with fundamental rights. This raises concerns about transparency, explainability, accountability, effective remedies, data protection, and the risk of bias and discrimination.