Introduction
The Council of Europe recently collaborated with the Parliament of Armenia to explore the ethical and human rights implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare [1]. This initiative aimed to align Armenian legal frameworks with European standards and address potential challenges posed by AI technologies.
Description
The Council of Europe recently engaged in a two-day discussion with the Parliament of Armenia on the ethical and human rights implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare [1], held on 24-25 February 2025 [1]. The event aimed to identify necessary amendments to the Armenian legal framework [1] [2], address potential human rights challenges associated with AI usage [1] [2], and present European standards from a report on AI’s impact on the patient-doctor relationship [2].
Key speakers included Laurence Lwoff from the Council of Europe [1] [2], alongside Armenian officials Arsen Torosyan and Rustam Bakoyan [1], who highlighted the growing significance of AI in healthcare [1] [2]. The discussions covered critical topics such as patient autonomy [1] [2], professional standards for healthcare providers [1] [2], self-determination over health data [1] [2], and equitable access to healthcare services [1] [2].
This initiative enhanced the understanding and capabilities of members of the Armenian National Assembly’s Standing Committees regarding national and European human rights standards related to AI in healthcare, while also promoting policy dialogue on the subject [2]. The event is part of the Council of Europe’s Project “Protection of Human Rights in Biomedicine III,” aligned with the Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026 [1].
Conclusion
The collaboration between the Council of Europe and the Armenian Parliament has strengthened the understanding of AI’s implications in healthcare, fostering a more informed legislative approach. By aligning with European standards, Armenia is better equipped to address the ethical and human rights challenges posed by AI, ensuring equitable and autonomous healthcare practices.
References
[1] https://www.coe.int/en/web/human-rights-and-biomedicine/-/the-council-of-europe-held-a-discussion-with-parliament-of-armenia-on-application-of-artificial-intelligence-in-the-field-of-healthcare
[2] https://www.coe.int/de/web/human-rights-and-biomedicine/-/the-council-of-europe-held-a-discussion-with-parliament-of-armenia-on-application-of-artificial-intelligence-in-the-field-of-healthcare
