AI Auditing Takes Center Stage at RightsCon 2025
Last week, IAAA founders Gemma Galdon Clavell, PhD and Shea Brown delivered a powerful session at RightsCon 2025, alongside Asma Derja from Ethical AI Alliance. Together, they addressed one of AI's most urgent challenges: establishing meaningful accountability through rigorous auditing practices.
The session opened with a compelling idea: If we rely on clinical trials for medicines, require seatbelts in cars, and mandate safety inspections for critical infrastructure, why aren't we demanding the same level of scrutiny for AI systems?
Key Takeaways:
?? AI auditing is non-negotiable. Comprehensive assessment is essential to ensure AI systems are designed and deployed responsibly, preventing harmful impacts on end-users and society.
??The resistance is real. We face significant pushback from those prioritising rapid innovation over responsible deployment. Expanding awareness about algorithmic discrimination and amplifying diverse voices in this conversation is crucial.
??Infrastructure matters. Beyond awareness, we need structured collaboration channels and comprehensive resources to properly train AI auditors, enabling them to effectively serve as digital rights defenders.
??Action, not just words. Discussions alone won't create change. We need concrete implementation of oversight mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and enforcement protocols.
This session emphasised the importance of moving beyond theoretical discussions about AI ethics to implementing practical, verifiable accountability measures that protect human rights and ensure equitable outcomes from AI systems.
We're so grateful to RightsCon for providing a platform for this vital conversation and recognising the critical importance of our work in ensuring AI serves everyone, not just a privileged few.
Join the Movement
Are you a professional working in technology ethics, data science, policy, or governance? The field of AI auditing needs your expertise! Join the IAAA to connect with practitioners shaping this critical discipline, access specialised resources, and contribute to establishing better standards for responsible AI. Visit our website to learn more about membership opportunities and how you can help build accountability into the future of AI systems.