Dy Minister highlights AI ethics to prevent digital human trafficking

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria emphasized the importance of applying ethical principles in artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent the misuse of technology in online human trafficking.He underlined that technology must serve as a solution for human protection, not as a new source of threats.According to Nezar, AI technology is increasingly being misused and has become a major driver of the growing number of human trafficking cases in the digital sphere.Therefore, AI development must be grounded in ethics, respect human rights, protect personal data, and align with the legal and social norms of each country.He delivered this message during the forum “Stay Safe in Digital Space: Behind the Screen – Trafficking is Closer Than You Think,” organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Jakarta on Tuesday (Nov 4).In front of international delegates, cybersecurity experts, and representatives of UN agencies, Nezar explained that the pattern of human trafficking has shifted into the digital realm.Social media, online job sites, and dating platforms have become tools used by transnational perpetrators to recruit and exploit victims.This shift has created new challenges for law enforcement, particularly as the vast volume of data can no longer be managed through manual approaches.Nezar noted that the use of AI can support early detection of suspicious activities in cyberspace.The technology can map criminal networks, trace illegal transactions, and accelerate the automatic preparation of legal documents.Such advancements, he said, provide a significant opportunity for judicial systems to operate more swiftly, accurately, and fairly.He also underscored the importance of ethics in the development and implementation of AI.Ethical use of AI, according to Nezar, is part of Indonesia’s national strategy to create a safe, reliable, and civilized digital environment.This approach also strengthens Indonesia’s position as an active player in global digital diplomacy and as a strategic partner in international efforts to combat transnational human rights crimes.