I spent a decade building digital government. Then I found out what AI was doing to children.
Samia Firmino is a researcher and speaker working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, child safety, and human rights. Her work turns evidence into policy, and policy into protection. Explore her research, writing, and speaking work on ethical AI and child protection.
Research and expertise recognised by
Samia Firmino built her career on the belief that technology should expand what government can do for citizens. Over twelve years in Brazil's federal government, she helped digitize 139 public services, shaped the GOV.BR platform, and watched digital access change lives at scale.
Then she went to Geneva to study AI through a human rights lens and spent a year analyzing what AI companion apps were actually doing to children. The findings sent her in a new direction. She has been working to change things ever since.
“AI chatbots are not a replacement
for professionals or human relationships
and should not be marketed as such.”
— SAMIA FIRMINO, AS QUOTED BY UNICEF INNOCENTI
Three ways to engage
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Keynote speaking
Talks for conferences, institutions, and policy forums on AI ethics, child online safety, and responsible innovation.
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Research
Primary research on generative AI risks for children, AI governance frameworks, and the human rights implications of AI development.
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Writing and commentary
Articles, policy commentary, and media contributions on AI companion risk, child protection, and ethical AI design.
A child's letter to the adults building the digital world.
Samia wrote this piece as a direct address from a child to everyone in a boardroom making decisions that shape childhood. It has been shared widely. It does not ask politely.
Explore the research
Samia's work spans AI companion risk, human rights frameworks, child protection policy, and ethical AI design. It is available to read, share, and build on.