Robots, AI and Fundamental Rights: Just Another Member of the Family?

The introduction of robots into our personal lives is becoming increasingly common. Robots are used to assist older people, care for and entertain children, perform household tasks, and act as personal assistants. These robots incorporate AI systems that enable them to interact “intelligently” with their environment, blurring the boundaries between humans and machines.
This evolution poses significant challenges for the protection of fundamental rights such as privacy, as well as others including health and individual freedom. The Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) establishes requirements and obligations to safeguard these rights, and organisations—both providers and deployers—must make an effort that goes beyond mere formal compliance. A broader, holistic assessment is also required to fully understand the implications for individuals and society as a whole.
Therefore, responsible and trustworthy AI demands a global, multidisciplinary, and critical approach to a technology that is becoming increasingly intrusive.