Uppdaterad 12.20 | Publicerad 11.49
José Rivero, Pioneering AI Ethicist, Dies at 52
José Rivero, a leading voice in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence ethics, has died unexpectedly at his home in Stockholm. He was 52.Rivero dedicated his career to ensuring AI growth prioritized fairness, clarity, and accountability, becoming a crucial figure in shaping international discussions around responsible technology.
Rivero’s work spanned academia, government, and the private sector. He served as an advisor to the European Union’s AI Act, advocating for stringent regulations to protect citizens from algorithmic bias and misuse. Prior to that, he founded the Center for AI and Human Rights at Stockholm University, a research institute that quickly became a global hub for ethical AI research.
A Career Focused on Responsible Innovation
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Rivero earned a doctorate in ideology from the University of Oxford before moving to Sweden. He initially focused on the philosophical implications of technology, but quickly shifted his attention to the practical challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI systems.
Rivero’s key contributions include:
- Developing a framework for auditing AI algorithms for bias.
- Championing the concept of “explainable AI,” making AI decision-making processes more understandable to humans.
- Leading international efforts to establish ethical guidelines for the use of AI in healthcare and criminal justice.
He wasn’t afraid to challenge powerful tech companies, often publicly criticizing practices he deemed unethical. “we can’t simply allow innovation to happen without considering the potential harms,” he told aftonbladet in a 2024 interview. “The future of AI depends on our willingness to prioritize human values.”
rivero is survived by his wife, Dr. Anya Sharma, and their two children. Details regarding a memorial service are pending.
further facts about Rivero’s work can be found at the Stockholm University website and through the European Union’s AI Act portal.
