Global Red Cross initiative to help embed human values in AI
Author ADM+S Centre
Date 5 May 2026
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is leading a new webinar examining the role of human values in guiding the design and use of AI and information and communication technologies.
Research Fellow Dr Dominique Carlon from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S) at Swinburne University joined the webinar launch on 30 April 2026 alongside global leaders to discuss embedding humanitarian principles in the design of AI systems.
Research shows that when humanitarian standards on accountability are embedded into approaches to digital transformation, the digital solutions developed are more relevant and sustainable and better meet the needs of practitioners and the communities we serve.
The panel, titled The Fundamental Principles and the Use of ICTs in Humanitarian Action – Now and Next, brought together leading voices across humanitarian and technology sectors. Dominique appeared alongside Omar Abou Samra of the American Red Cross and Malka Older, Executive Director of Global Voices. The session was hosted by the Kenyan Red Cross and moderated by Julia Goodall of the Australian Red Cross.
Drawing on work from the ADM+S Critical Capabilities for Inclusive AI Project, Dr Carlon highlighted the importance of ensuring AI systems serve people, not just technical goals. She emphasised that “benefit” must be defined in human terms—measured through capabilities, dignity, choice, and agency—rather than efficiency alone. Central to this approach is working directly with communities and partner organisations to ground technological development in lived experience.
Dr Carlon said that the thoughtful discussions involved in building consensus are very promising.
“This kind of deliberative, informed approach helps ensure that AI adoption is not driven by convenience or efficiency alone, but instead takes a future‑focused lens that is aligned with humanitarian principles, and avoids inadvertently introducing new harms or data and security risks that would compromise fundamental values,” said Dr Carlon.
The webinar marks the start of a coordinated program to build consensus around a forthcoming Resolution on the Principled and Accountable Use of ICTs in Humanitarian Action.
It is being jointly developed by the International Committee of the Red Cross, IFRC, and a coalition of national societies including the Australian Red Cross, American Red Cross, British Red Cross, Kenyan Red Cross, and others.
The webinar brought together participants from across the global Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including those working in conflict settings, alongside representatives from organisations such as UNHCR and Médecins Sans Frontières.
The series will continue over the coming months as momentum builds toward the 2026 Council of Delegates, where the Resolution is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of responsible AI in humanitarian action.
