Blog of Rina Dupriet, SI UN Representative at UNESCO.

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), the question of its relevance in mental health care has grown in significance. The French National Commission for UNESCO, in collaboration with the University of Paris Saclay, recently came together to address this topic, assessing current AI projects and reflecting on their expected results. Thus, on November 16 2023, during the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference, I participated in a panel at UNESCO headquarters as part of World Philosophy Day.  

A First Diagnosis 

Today, AI is not only at the heart of medical research, it also permeates the fabric of companies that develop new and innovative products. In short, AI is at the heart of a changing society.  

Whilst AI holds promise, public health policies require a clear framework for its integration as well as more precise regulations (which are currently lacking.) The dependency on reliable data to analyse problems remains a hurdle, and the rapid evolution of AI has meant that this tool often outpaces regulatory measures. As such, individuals are beginning to find themselves caught between concerns over privacy and freedom; as Ai increasingly invades social spaces, the risk of eroding human relations become even more apparent.  

UNESCO’s Current Commitment  

Recognising the multifaceted challenges posed by AI, UNESCO is currently working with over 50 countries to prepare the necessary recommendations for navigating the future. The organisation emphasises that all neurotechnologies accompanied by AI must undergo rigorous supervision. UNESCO operates on the principle that education is the key to preserving the essence of humanity amidst the AI revolution. 

AI, as an instrument, cannot provide all the answers. Hence, there is a collective obligation for all of us to question ourselves and the world around us if we are to find new methods of intervention within the spirit of humanity.  

Taking Action on Multiple Fronts 

To address the complexities, action must be taken on various levels: 

• Education and Training: Develop new methods to nurture a critical mindset. 
• Research and Evaluation: Establish reliable laboratories for evaluations. 
• Data Quality: Tackle the challenge of ensuring the quality of data. 
• Social Audits: Utilise periodic social audits to reflect on issues like relapses, overmedicalisation, or insufficient medicalisation. 

Global Perspectives on AI and Mental Health  

International Speakers, including those from Korea, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Pretoria and the Catholic Institute of Lille, echoed similar sentiments. There was consensus on the need to uphold the patient’s autonomy, find technical solutions, and acknowledge that AI does not offer all-encompassing technical answers. 

As AI continues to transform the landscape of mental health care, it is imperative for societies worldwide to engage in informed discussions, shape robust frameworks, and remain committed to the principles that define our shared humanity.