Statement on AI Ethics for Child Safety

Date of Publication: June 28, 2024

Please note that this document is an unofficial translation and was prepared for reference purpose only. The original release is in Japanese.

Preamble

AiCAN Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “the Company”) is committed to the vision of “a world safe for all children.” The Company supports those involved in child safety through business activities that integrate technology (ICT systems, data utilization, etc.) and on-site expertise. As part of these efforts, the Company is actively engaged in the research, development, and practical application of services that leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the efficiency and decision-making of those involved in child safety.

In recent years, ethical issues related to AI have been highlighted in organizations utilizing AI, and the importance of AI governance considering ethical aspects, has been increasing both domestically and internationally. Given the significant impact that the Company’s AI-based services have on children, their families, and society, the Company has decided to publish this statement. This statement aims to ensure reliability and transparency by outlining the Fundamental Principles in the Company’s AI development and Practices, along with the efforts to meet these principles.

The Fundamental Principles and Practices described herein will be updated as necessary, taking into account the trends in domestic and international laws and guidelines on AI, technological advancements, changes in people’s lives and social conditions, and the Company’s practical situation.

Fundamental Principles

One of the elements of the Company’s vision of “a world safe for all children” is the fulfillment of the four principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) listed below. Therefore, the Company is committed to developing, procuring, and practicing AI based on these principles, prioritizing the best interests and rights of children.

Right to life, survival, and development

Every child’s life must be protected, and they must be guaranteed access to healthcare, education, and living support to fully develop their inherent potential.

Best interests of the child

In all decisions and actions concerning children, the primary consideration should be “what is best for the child.”

Respect for the views of the child

Children should be free to express their opinions on matters that affect them, and adults must duly consider these opinions according to the child’s level of development.

Non-discrimination

All children should be guaranteed all the rights set forth in the Convention without discrimination on any grounds, including race, nationality, gender, opinion, disability, or economic status of the child or their parents.

Practices

To meet the Fundamental Principles, the Company will undertake the following practices:

Formulation of AI Ethical Policies and Guidelines

The Company formulates AI ethical policies and practical guidelines based on the Fundamental Principles and implements AI governance in accordance with them.

Ethical Evaluation

The Company carries out and documents ethical evaluations throughout the AI lifecycle, including development, procurement, implementation, operation, and disposal, in accordance with its AI ethical policies and practical guidelines.

Collaboration with Stakeholders

The Company implements AI governance with a clear understanding of the ethical responsibilities that each of the AI developers, providers, and users hold. As an AI developer and provider, the Company puts effort into explaining, training, and communicating with users about the purpose, effects, usage methods, and risks of AI, and aims to fulfill the Fundamental Principles through collaboration with users. Additionally, the Company identifies all related stakeholders affected by AI and strives to implement AI governance that respects their human rights.

Establishment of the Organizational Structures and their Operation

The Company establishes and operates the necessary organizational structures to realize its AI ethical policies. Specifically, it sets up different committees to oversee AI ethics in general, evaluate AI ethics, and address emerging AI ethics issues.

Employee Education

The Company provides training to employees on domestic and international trends in AI governance, the Company’s Fundamental Principles, AI ethical policies, practices, and organizational structure, ensuring that all employees understand and practice the importance of AI ethics.

AiCAN Inc.