NUJ expresses ‘grave concern’ over AI refugee article in local newspapers

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed “grave concern” over an article generated by artificial intelligence (AI) about refugees published on a number of regional media websites on Tuesday.

The article, which originally had the headline, “OPINION: Should refugees in Ireland go home?”, was published by Iconic Media’s digital titles such as Limerick Live and Tipperary Live.

The headline has since been changed to “Can we trust artificial intelligence?” while the byline on the article says was “AI Generated”.

Séamus Dooley, NUJ Irish secretary, said the union would have “a grave concern at the use of AI generated material in this fashion”.

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“The heading ‘should refugees in Ireland go home’ is classic clickbait and is designed to be provocative,” he said.

“Asylum seekers granted refugee status in Ireland under international law are granted a new home and the notion of asking if they should ‘go home’ seems intended to fuel a debate similar to that generated in the UK.

“While the article seems relatively benign the question is loaded and is a classic trope. A journalist writing such a story would examine the local and national context, talk to relevant agencies and NGOs and perhaps discuss personal stories.

“The article largely ignores the human dimension, the pain and suffering of those forced to flee persecution or human rights abuses, the complex reasons why people seek asylum and the reasons why refugees may not be in a position to ‘go home’.”

Mr Dooley added that AI was no substitute for “genuine journalism carried out by intelligent human beings paid a decent salary and enjoying proper working conditions”.

Iconic Media has been contacted for comment.