The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has unveiled its “Core Principles” for the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies in the entertainment industry. Recognizing the potential threat to employers’ business models and the livelihoods of IATSE members, the union emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges posed by AI. This approach encompasses research, collaboration, education, political and legislative advocacy, organizing, and collective bargaining.
Research for Understanding and Preparation
IATSE aims to be at the forefront of understanding the impact of AI and ML on its members and the entertainment industry as a whole. This involves gaining a better understanding of the current use of AI and ML tools by both members and employers, as well as forecasting the future capabilities and limitations of these technologies. The union is committed to establishing clear definitions of various types of AI to ensure enforceable legislative and collective bargaining oversight. Additionally, IATSE will identify crafts and local unions that are most at risk of being affected by AI in the immediate future. The IATSE Commission on Artificial Intelligence will conduct a comprehensive study of AI technologies, focusing on how they may reshape job opportunities within the union’s jurisdiction. It will also explore how contract provisions, legislation, and training programs can be adapted to ensure equitable sharing of productivity gains resulting from AI.
Collaboration with Partners and Stakeholders
Recognizing the distributed nature of AI technology and the involvement of multinational corporations, IATSE emphasizes the importance of collaboration with partners and stakeholders. The union’s Commission on Artificial Intelligence will bring together IATSE members, representatives at all levels, and external experts to guide its approach to the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. This collaboration extends to allied groups and organizations such as the AFL-CIO Technology Institute, the Human Artistry Campaign, the Copyright Alliance, and the Department of Professional Employees. IATSE will also collaborate with international organizations like UNI MEI and BECTU.
Education for Continuous Adaptation
IATSE recognizes the need for its members to continually adapt to new technologies in order to remain at the forefront of the industry. The union asserts that its members have the right to receive adequate training and upskilling opportunities to navigate changes brought about by AI in their work environment. IATSE will work to equip its members with the necessary skills through its own Education and Training Department, as well as the IATSE Training Trust Fund.
Organizing and Job Security
IATSE acknowledges that the implementation of AI and ML can serve as catalysts for organizing entertainment workers in new job classifications. The union is committed to organizing these workers and ensuring that their rights, job security, and union jurisdiction are maintained. IATSE emphasizes that workers in AI-related roles should receive the same rights and protections as those in roles that historically have not involved AI. The union firmly believes that AI should complement the work done by its members, rather than leading to job losses.
Political and Legislative Advocacy
IATSE will continue to advocate for the interests of behind-the-scenes entertainment workers in policymaking, with a particular focus on maintaining strong copyright and intellectual property laws. The union supports the Core Principles for Artificial Intelligence Applications in Support of Human Creativity and Accomplishment, as part of its involvement with the Human Artistry Campaign. IATSE will advocate for policies that ensure fair compensation for entertainment workers when their work is used to train or generate new works by AI systems. The union also seeks to improve transparency surrounding the use of AI and ML systems and prevent legal loopholes that could be exploited by individuals, companies, and organizations.
Collective Bargaining for AI Provisions
IATSE recognizes that the impact of AI on work conditions and roles falls within the scope of mandatory collective bargaining subjects. The union is committed to negotiating provisions that address AI in future contracts. IATSE demands transparency from employers regarding their use of AI, even in the absence of relevant government legislation. The union aims to safeguard its members’ privacy rights and ensure that AI applications adhere to the highest ethical standards, including non-discrimination and fairness. IATSE emphasizes that collective bargaining is the primary way to ensure workers’ rights and avoid delays in government regulation through legislation, which may take years or never materialize at all.
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