AI as a Catalyst for Disability Rights: Insights from Human Rights Expert Victor Santiago Pineda

New York – Victor Santiago Pineda, the founder of World Enabled and a person with disabilities, shares his vision of how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize access and opportunities for people with disabilities. Pineda, who navigates life using a wheelchair and a breathing machine, grew up confronting numerous barriers. As an adult, he advocates for AI as a tool to dismantle these barriers, provided it is designed inclusively.

According to World Economic Forum, the key to harnessing AI effectively lies in ensuring that it does not exclude people with disabilities. Instead, it should empower them, whether they face challenges in mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive functions. He emphasizes that considering the needs of users with functional limitations can lead to more innovative and universally beneficial products.

Pineda highlights the dual nature of technology for people with disabilities: while they stand to benefit immensely, there is also a significant risk of increased marginalization if technology is not accessible. To unlock the full potential of AI and digital technologies, developers must create interfaces that cater to a diverse user base and ensure equitable access based on affordability.

Pineda stresses the importance of elevating marginalized voices in the development of AI algorithms. Many datasets tend to overshadow these voices by focusing on mainstream concepts. However, with the right methodologies, regulations, and values, it is possible to create models that give more weight to underrepresented groups, thus ensuring outcomes that better reflect the diversity of society.

The concept of “Nothing about us without us” is central to Pineda’s philosophy. He argues for a governance model in AI and technology development that embodies fairness, transparency, and diverse representation. This approach demands the active participation of people with disabilities in both development and decision-making processes. Pineda envisions a move towards targeted universalism, where universal goals are pursued with tailored strategies for different communities.

In the broader context of disability rights, the World Economic Forum’s Platform for Shaping the Future of the New Economy and Society aims to bridge the disability inclusion gap, supported by business leaders. This platform drives business actions, shares insights, and accelerates initiatives like the Valuable 500, a network of CEOs dedicated to disability inclusion. Pineda views AI as a groundbreaking frontier in the fight for disability rights, emphasizing the necessity of including the perspectives and values of the 1.2 billion people worldwide living with disabilities in the ongoing AI revolution.

This article draws on an interview with Victor Santiago Pineda, offering an in-depth look at his vision for AI in enhancing disability rights and inclusion.