The technology will bring challenges and opportunities for the sector
Charities can harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to solve social and environmental problems - it has been argued in a new report.
The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) has published a response to the recent call for evidence from the House of Lords Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence.
It outlines the ways in which charities are already successfully using AI as well as some of the potential challenges and opportunities the technology will bring in the future.
The use of AI in many different areas of modern life poses a number of known risks which charities are in a prime position to help avoid or minimise.
It is now widely recognised that the algorithms driving AI can lead to existing social biases being strengthened and vulnerable individuals and groups becoming side-lined.
Charities often exist to represent these marginalised elements in our society so they have a vital role to play in overcoming these challenges.
Rhodri Davies, leader of CAF's Giving Thought think tank, said: "Artificial intelligence is already having a huge impact on all of us - even if we don't realise it - and it seems set to transform all aspects of our lives in years to come.
"Charities must get to grips with AI, not only because they could benefit enormously in terms of their own work, but because they could play a vital role in minimising some of the risks associated with this evolving technology.
"Government and the private sector must work with charities to ensure they get the benefit of their expertise in tackling social and environmental issues caused by the development of AI applications.”
