AI and its impact on Private Security explained in the new CoESS Charter on the Ethical and Responsible Use of AI
What Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications are driving innovation in security and what core principles should guide the ethical use of AI in the security industry to harness its potential while mitigating its risks? These are some of the questions that the Confederation of European Security Services (CoESS) is addressing with its new Charter on the Ethical and Responsible Use of AI in the European security services – available at www.coess.eu. Launched today, this landmark initiative provides essential guidance for security companies as they navigate the growing integration of AI systems into their operations.
As AI technology becomes more prevalent in security services — ranging from data-driven risk analysis to smart security solutions — its potential benefits to public security and society are manifold. However, certain AI applications come with important risks. The European Union’s AI Act outlines regulations for "high-risk" AI, placing new important compliance demands on businesses. Security companies must realize when they are utilizing AI in their services, they must be able to distinguish between “low-risk” vs. “high-risk” systems and use cases, and need to fully understand the implications of this legislation.
The CoESS Charter, developed by a dedicated Expert Group, aims to go well beyond ticking regulatory boxes: it champions a human-centric approach to AI innovation, rooted in a set of core values established in the document. While helping companies assess AI systems and use cases, the Charter highlights both the opportunities and challenges of AI deployment in security. It offers practical recommendations and compliance requirements for when deploying AI, including a checklist, ensuring companies navigate AI integration responsibly and effectively.
With this Charter, CoESS aims to enhance understanding of the use of AI in security solutions and underscores the commitment of its members to promoting ethical and responsible innovation in the security industry at the benefit of public security and society. The Charter can be downloaded here.