OpenAI, the company behind the popular AI platform ChatGPT, has become the latest organisation to sign Ireland’s National Charter for Digital Inclusion, committing to efforts aimed at bridging the digital divide.
The charter is designed to ensure that the benefits of digital technologies and artificial intelligence are accessible to all communities, businesses, and learners across the country. It encourages public and private organisations to provide equitable access to technology, develop digital skills, and support people in using online services safely and confidently.
By signing up, OpenAI has pledged to focus on staff upskilling and the creation of inclusive workplaces, while embedding digital inclusion criteria into its products and corporate policies. The commitment reflects a broader effort to make AI and other emerging technologies beneficial and accessible to everyone.
Emma Redmond, Head of OpenAI Ireland, said the move represents the company’s dedication to ensuring equitable access to AI. “We believe AI can expand opportunity, not limit it,” she said. “Today’s commitment reflects our dedication to ensuring that individuals and businesses across Ireland can engage with AI safely, confidently and beneficially.”
OpenAI joins a growing list of companies and organisations across Ireland that have signed the charter, which sets out clear guidelines and commitments for promoting basic digital skills, raising awareness about technology, and helping people gain online access. Signatories work to integrate these goals into their operations, products, and services, aiming to create tangible benefits for society.
Niamh Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with responsibility for trade promotion, AI, and digital transformation, welcomed OpenAI’s participation. “OpenAI’s participation in the charter reflects the type of collaborative approach we need, bringing together businesses of all sizes, public bodies and communities to deliver real, tangible benefits for all,” Smyth said.
The charter is part of Ireland’s broader strategy to foster digital inclusion at a time when AI technologies are rapidly transforming the workplace, education, and everyday life. With more people relying on digital platforms for work, learning, and services, initiatives like the National Charter for Digital Inclusion aim to prevent segments of society from being left behind.
OpenAI’s involvement signals the company’s commitment to being part of this collaborative effort, ensuring that AI tools such as ChatGPT are developed and deployed in ways that promote access, fairness, and safety. It also highlights the growing recognition that technology companies have a responsibility to support digital literacy and inclusion alongside innovation.
By signing the charter, OpenAI has committed to measures that support equitable AI access, training staff in digital skills, and fostering inclusive workplaces, while helping Irish businesses and communities navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
