Accra:A new principle on artificial intelligence has been incorporated into the ethical guidelines for Azerbaijani journalists.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, the new principle was adopted unanimously and aims to establish rules for the use of artificial intelligence in media activities. Deputy Chairman of the Press Council Mushfig Alasgarli mentioned that the ethical guidelines now consist of five principles, with ongoing efforts to develop a sixth concerning artificial intelligence.
The new principle mandates that media organizations implement internal documents to regulate AI use within their editorial offices. These documents must define the purposes, limits, verification procedures, and editorial responsibilities associated with AI use. It is also essential for editorial offices to provide opportunities for employees to enhance their AI skills.
The guidelines emphasize that AI systems should not replace the initiative and judgment of journalists, editorial independence, or human oversight. Content created with AI assistance must be verified by journalists before publication to ensure accuracy, factual content, and source reliability. Responsibility for published materials remains with journalists and editorial offices.
Additionally, the principle stresses transparency, requiring that audiences understand when content is created, modified, or significantly shaped by AI. AI-generated materials, such as photographs, audio, and video, must be clearly labeled, with information about their origins provided to prevent audience deception.
The use of AI systems must also adhere to principles of respecting copyright, personal data confidentiality, human dignity, and non-discrimination.