Human-in-command
The principle that AI systems should support rather than replace human agency.
How the laws define this
Both cited instruments establish that human involvement must remain central when using technology in the workplace, agreeing that artificial intelligence should support rather than replace humans in work-related choices. The ILO Observatory on AI and Work in the Digital Economy and Work for a brighter future - Report of the Global Commission on the Future of Work both center on keeping people at the heart of labor decisions. They diverge, however, on the required level of human authority. The ILO Observatory on AI and Work in the Digital Economy describes a general principle of supporting human agency and maintaining oversight in labor-related decisions. Conversely, Work for a brighter future - Report of the Global Commission on the Future of Work establishes a stricter standard for outcomes, requiring that final decisions affecting work, explicitly citing hiring or firing, must be made by humans rather than algorithms.
Synthesised from the 2 statutory definitions below. Each one is quoted in full, with its source.
What it triggers
- The ILO Global Commission on the Future of Work sets out that final decisions affecting work, such as hiring or firing, are made by humans rather than algorithms.source
- The ILO Observatory on AI and Work in the Digital Economy defines the principle that AI systems should support and complement human agency rather than replace it, ensuring human oversight in labor-related decisions.
- The 2019 advisory report Work for a Brighter Future by the ILO Global Commission on the Future of Work guides member states and social partners by establishing a human-in-command principle for AI and algorithmic workplace systems.source
Definitions (2)
The principle that AI systems should support and complement human agency rather than replace it, ensuring human oversight in labor-related decisions.
An approach to technology that ensures final decisions affecting work, such as hiring or firing, are made by humans rather than algorithms.
Questions and answers
What does human-in-command mean for AI in the workplace?
Human-in-command means that final decisions affecting work, such as hiring or firing, are made by humans rather than algorithms. It ensures AI supports human decision-making in labor contexts.
How does the ILO apply human-in-command?
The principle guides member states and social partners through the 2019 advisory report Work for a Brighter Future by ensuring human oversight in labor-related decisions for AI and algorithmic systems.