TED Tech 5 ethical principles for digitizing humanitarian aid | Aarathi Krishnan
Dec 6, 2024
Aarathi Krishnan, a tech and human rights ethicist and thought leader in international humanitarian aid, dives into the digitization of aid and its ethical implications. She uncovers the risks of biometric IDs and government surveillance, emphasizing the need for informed consent. Krishnan presents five ethical principles to steer humanitarian tech innovation, advocating for equity and accountability. She urges a reflection on past injustices to shape a future where technology truly benefits vulnerable communities.
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Rohingya Refugee Data Sharing
- Rohingya refugees were required to register for a digital biometric ID card upon entering camps in Bangladesh.
- This data was later shared with the Myanmar government, sparking fears of retaliation.
Rapid Digitization in Humanitarian Aid
- Humanitarians have rapidly adopted digital tools, but this poses risks to vulnerable populations.
- Deploying untested technologies without proper consent is a concern.
Good Intentions and Harm
- Good intentions in humanitarian aid do not prevent harm and can even cause it.
- Krishnan studies the ethics of humanitarian tech to ensure vulnerable populations are not further marginalized.