2 million euros for Human-Centered AI research

The research of the AI, Media & Democracy ELSA Lab will be realised in co-creative environments. These so-called ELSA Labs (‘Ethical, Legal and Societal Aspects’) are places where research into technological developments is carried out that incorporates ethical, legal, societal and economic developments. The research within this NWO call must support the development of technological innovations that safeguard public values and constitutional rights, respect human rights – and strengthen these where possible – and that can count on public support. The research will therefore encourage the development of an ecosystem of trust.

Together with journalists, media professionals, designers, citizens, fellow researchers and public and civil society partners, the Lab develops and tests value-driven, human-centered AI applications and ethical and legal frameworks for responsible use of AI. The goal of the Lab is to stimulate innovative AI applications that strengthen the democratic function of media. It works with partners such as RTL, DPG Media, NPO, Beeld en Geluid, Media Perspectives, NEMO Kennislink, Waag Society, Gemeente Amsterdam, Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, Commissariaat van de Media, Hogeschool Utrecht, Utrecht University, Cultural AI Lab, Koninklijke Bbibliotheek, BBC and the Bayrischer Rundfunk AI Lab.

“This grant allows us to explore, together with our partners, how AI can play a role in the democratic and independent role of the media, the public sphere and citizens who want to be informed. With the AI, Media & Democracy Lab, we can make our contribution to independent innovation, but also to forming a vision of the future of media in our digital society.” – Prof. Dr. Natali Helberger, University Professor of Law and Digital Technology at the UvA and co-founder of the AI, Media & Democracy Lab.