AI impact assessments are a leading strategy to promote “trustworthy AI” in government and private sector AI systems.

In November 2024, the Law Commission of Ontario and Ontario Human Rights Commission released the first AI impact assessment based on Canadian human rights law. The LCO/OHRC HRIA is a practical step-by-step guide that will help Canadian public and private organizations embed “human rights by design” in their AI systems.

Today, the LCO is releasing a Backgrounder summarizing the benefits, limitations, and choices in AI impact assessments. The Backgrounder will help policymakers and stakeholders understand the key issues and stakeholder perspectives on these important AI governance tools.