NZSL Board releases position statement on NZSL and AI

NZSL Board releases position statement on NZSL and AI

The New Zealand Sign Language Board has published a position statement on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) with New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).

"AI is already being used with NZSL. It is important this work is done with the Deaf and Turi Māori[1] communities, so it strengthens the language now and into the future," says NZSL Board Chair Catherine Greenwood.

"This position statement responds to concerns within the Deaf and Turi Māori communities that they may be losing control of their language and how it will be developed.

"NZSL is a taonga and an official language, not a product to be extracted, packaged or used without Deaf leadership and community control," Greenwood said.

Deaf community members, developers, funders, researchers and public agencies now have a clear set of expectations for how to work with NZSL and NZSL data including how it is collected, stored, managed and used.

"NZSL data captures people's language, bodies, movement, identity, cultural knowledge and language variation. It is not English on the hands but a living language with its own culture and grammar," said Greenwood.

The position statement sets out how work with AI should involve Deaf and Turi Māori decision-making, and what this means for agencies and organisations working with AI technologies and NZSL.

The NZSL Board's guidance is informed by insights from 'Te Mana o te Reo Rotarota NZSL and AI Forum,' held in June to explore the opportunities and risks offered by AI.

Hosted by the NZSL Board, with support from the Ministry of Disabled People - Whaikaha, the forum brought together Deaf community members, Turi Māori, the NZSL Board, Te Rōpū Kaitiaki[2], NZSL interpreters, public sector agencies, academics and technology providers.

In addition to risks and opportunities, attendees discussed how to support ethical, innovative and Deaf-led use of technology.

Used well, AI and other technologies could improve access to information and services, support the autonomy and participation of Deaf people, and create new opportunities.

"Without good design, agreed governance and consent, many in the Deaf community are concerned NZSL will be mispresented and our access to essential services undermined," says Greenwood.

"Technology is not a substitute for people, language expertise, or trusted community relationships, especially in settings - such as health and justice - requiring nuance, accuracy and sensitivity."

The national forum on NZSL and AI was part of the 'Action Plan May 2026 -June 2027' to implement the refreshed 'New Zealand Sign Language Strategy 2026-2036'.

Position Statement in English and NZSL on the NZSL Board website external URL

[1] Deaf Māori

[2] The Māori advisory group to the NZSL Board