More than 200 employees at Google DeepMindthe AI division of GoogleAccording to a report from Time Magazine, Google employees have signed an open letter urging the company to end its contracts with military organizations. The letter, dated May 16, 2024, raises concerns that DeepMind’s AI technology is being used for military purposes, which could violate Google’s own AI principles, which prohibit applications that cause harm or aid in the development of weapons. The employees specifically reference Google’s defense contract with the Israeli military, known as Project Nimbus, and reports that AI is being used for mass surveillance and target selection in Gaza.
The letter emphasizes that the employees’ concerns are not about a specific conflict but about the broader issue of respecting ethical practices in AI. They argue that involvement in military projects undermines DeepMind’s position as a leader in responsible AI and goes against the company’s mission statement and AI principles.
When Google acquired DeepMind in 2014, it assured that the lab’s technology would never be used for military or surveillance purposes. However, as DeepMind became more integrated into Google’s core business, the lines between commercial and military applications blurred, leading to internal conflicts.
The letter calls for an investigation into allegations of military use of Google Cloud services, an end to military access to DeepMind technology, and the creation of a new governance body to prevent future military applications. Despite these demands, Google has not provided a substantive response to the employees’ concerns.
A Google spokesperson defended the company’s practices, saying they adhered to AI principles that ensure responsible technology development. The internal dissent follows previous protests against Project Nimbus, which led to the layoffs of dozens of employees earlier this year.
