AI age‑detection tool could misclassify child refugees as adults, charity warns

Human Rights Network has warned that the Home Office’s planned facial‑recognition software, which will estimate the ages of migrants, contains a “racist bias” that over‑estimates the ages of black children. The organisation argues that such inaccuracies could result in solo children being placed in adult accommodation facilities, a situation that would contravene child protection standards.

The AI‑powered age‑detection system is set to be deployed to screen migrants arriving from conflict zones. Rights groups and children’s charities have highlighted that the underlying models are flawed and racially skewed, potentially endangering vulnerable children. They urge ministers to halt the introduction of the technology until robust safeguards can be established.

The Human Rights Network calls for an immediate review of the Home Office’s plans, emphasizing the need for accurate, non‑discriminatory age assessment tools to protect the rights and safety of children in the migration system.