An Abu Dhabi mother is preparing a will that would require her child’s future guardians to consult ChatGPT on major decisions about his upbringing if she dies while he is young. The proposal, called the Living Wishes Protocol, is awaiting registration with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and has not received court approval.
The draft allows guardians to use AI alongside a written record of the mother’s values, beliefs and parenting wishes. The system would offer guidance on decisions the mother could not have anticipated. It would have no legal authority over the child, and the guardian would retain responsibility for all decisions.
Byron James of Expatriate Law, the firm preparing the document, told Khaleej Times, “It isn’t about recreating the mother or allowing AI to raise her son. It’s about trying to preserve something of her guidance while leaving decisions firmly in human hands.”
The seven-page bilingual draft outlines several situations in which guardians would consult the AI system. These include decisions about schooling, residence, non-urgent medical or psychological treatment, religious upbringing and contact with the mother’s family.
Guardians would provide the AI with the mother’s written wishes and relevant details about each situation. However, they would need to consider the child’s welfare and personal preferences before deciding. The child’s views would receive greater weight as he grows older.
The proposal also calls for annual reviews of the child’s education, health, happiness, friendships and changing needs until he turns 18. A separate human adviser would review the arrangement at least once a year.
The protocol would not cover emergencies or permit actions that violate laws or court orders. Guardians would also maintain confidential records of major AI consultations and their decisions.
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The proposal raises questions about data protection, access to sensitive information and the long-term availability of the chosen AI platform. James said the technical arrangements for storing and accessing the mother’s wishes have not been finalised.
The draft states that the child’s privacy and independence must take priority over preserving the parent’s influence. The firm has also cautioned against describing the proposal as a world first, as no exhaustive global search has been conducted.
James confirmed that the legal treatment of the arrangement remains unresolved. The wording could change after legal review, and the draft will require further consideration by the relevant authorities.