AI and Disability Rights: Enhancing Accessibility or Perpetuating Bias?

This article explores the dual role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of disability rights, examining its potential to enhance accessibility while simultaneously highlighting the risks of perpetuating bias. As AI technologies increasingly influence various aspects of daily life, their impact on individuals with disabilities warrants critical analysis. The article begins by reviewing existing AI applications designed to improve accessibility, such as speech recognition, computer vision, and smart home technologies. It then delves into the ethical implications of these technologies, considering issues of algorithmic bias that may exacerbate existing disparities. By analysing case studies and recent research, the article identifies key challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into disability rights frameworks. Ultimately, it advocates for a collaborative approach among technologists, disability advocates, and policymakers to ensure that AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion.