Definition
decision to pause, redesign or stop a humanitarian AI use when conditions for responsible use cannot be met
AidGPT working definition. Source basis below.
Notes to entry
Note 1 to entry: SAFE AI names this decision responsible refusal. Its examples include no meaningful redress, unclear accountability, unexpected data reuse, disproportionate effects where people cannot opt out, replacement of essential human judgement, and adoption driven mainly by pressure rather than evidenced benefit.
Note 2 to entry: Document the reason, a workable alternative and what would need to change before reconsidering AI. This is a governance choice, not a failure to innovate.
Source basis
AidGPT working definition. These sources informed the concept and its scope. They did not issue or approve this wording.
- CDAC Network, SAFE AI Framework, version 1.2 (2026) (Humanitarian AI governance framework)
- CDAC Network, SAFE AI Tools and Guidance, version 1.2 (2026) (Humanitarian AI governance guidance)