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HHRC
2025
We are excited to announce the Health and Human Rights Conference 2025, hosted by Queen's University School of Medicine. This year’s theme, "Health and Human Rights in the Digital Age," addresses the intersection of technology and healthcare through the lens of human rights. As advancements in telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and other digital health technologies transform how healthcare is delivered and accessed, we face critical questions that must be addressed. The rise of these technologies presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly regarding equity, justice, autonomy and the ethical implications of their use.
Today, we stand at a defining moment where the decisions we make in policy and industry will widely shape the future of healthcare delivery. The integration of new technology into healthcare systems has the potential to improve access and efficiency but also raises concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, unequal access to care and so much more. Participants in this conference will have the opportunity to explore these crucial issues, discussing how we can ensure that advancements in health technology align with fundamental human rights principles.
The conference will feature three interdisciplinary speakers who will illuminate the complex relationship between technology
and human rights in healthcare. Attendees can expect to engage with thought-provoking discussions on critical issues such as differential access to technology, the potential for bias in algorithmic decision-making, the gaps and opportunities in our current legal system regarding new technologies and the importance of preserving values of equity and fairness in digital health initiatives. By exploring these critical questions, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of how to advocate for human rights amidst rapid technological change.
In addition to the keynote presentations, the conference will include a research showcase highlighting innovative projects that address health technology and human rights. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to interact with industry representatives, learn about their products, and explore the considerations they are making to uphold human rights standards. Networking opportunities during the day will allow participants to connect with faculty, industry leaders, speakers, and fellow students, enriching their perspectives on the impact of technology on healthcare. This conference is not just a platform for discussion; it is intended to provide a basis of knowledge using which participants can meaningfully engage with concepts of human rights and new technologies in healthcare.
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