Humanitarian action and responsible artificial intelligence (AI)
The FCDO invites proposals by 13 January 2025 to conduct research on how humanitarian actors can address the risks associated with AI systems so they can be used responsibly.
Proposals must be submitted by 11:59pm UK time on 13 January 2025.
Overview
This project will recommend an approach for responsible AI in humanitarian action. This will guide the practices of humanitarian actors. It should be developed collaboratively, proportionately and mindful of humanitarian principles. Read the information on this page and in the attachments for more information.
What the fund will achieve
Respondents are encouraged to set out their own methodology to deliver the above objective, including recommendations on the scope of the project, although for illustrative purposes we expect delivering this will involve these steps:
1. Mapping
To include:
- safety approaches which may be relevant to humanitarian actors (for example standards, assurance tools, governance frameworks, evaluation tools, relevant regulatory requirements should also be explored)
- potential socio-technical risks generated from humanitarian actors using AI tools. This could potentially take a risk-based lens to map different approaches against different risks or AI use cases
2. Synthesising the mapping into practical options for a responsible AI framework
This may involve packaging existing tools but could also involve suggestions to tweak practices developed in other sectors. Assess the practical implications of these options on humanitarian delivery and their long-term feasibility. Convene implementers, tech organisations, donors and representatives of affected populations to understand their views and what might be proportionate.
3. Based on the assessment, recommend a framework for responsible AI in humanitarian action.
4. Disseminate the agreed approach and where appropriate provide or adapt existing tools and guidance to humanitarian actors to support its use.
Requirements for organisations wishing to apply
This funding opportunity is only available to not-for-profit organisations. Any bids by for-profit organisations will not be eligible for funding and will not be considered. See the attached call for proposals document for organisation requirements.
How to apply
Read the call for proposals invitation document for more details on the programme and how to apply.
Email your proposals to Scott.white@fcdo.gov.uk and Robert.Phillips@fcdo.gov.uk by 11:59pm UK time on 13 January 2025.
Market engagement event
We held a market engagement session on 29 November 2024 to help applicants identify potential partners to respond to the call for proposals and the requirement for humanitarian, research and technical AI expertise.
Contact
If you have any questions about this call for proposals, email Scott.White@fcdo.gov.uk. You can submit additional questions by 17 December 2024.
Updates to this page
Published 19 November 2024Last updated 16 December 2024 + show all updates
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Market engagement event presentation and FAQs added.
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Details of a market engagement event for potential applicants have been added.
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First published.