Apple Shareholders Reject Human Rights and AI Transparency Proposals

At Apple Inc.'s recent annual shareholder meeting, multiple proposals regarding the company's internal policies and ethical considerations were voted on. Among these, a notable proposal presented by the National Legal and Policy Center (NPC) was rejected. This proposal sought to initiate an internal investigation to ensure that Apple adheres to its human rights policy, with a specific focus on the company's actions such as the restriction of iPhone features in regions experiencing protests. The findings of this proposed investigation would have been published by March 31, 2025. Apple has faced criticism for its close relationship with China, including the removal of certain apps during protests and the CEO's visits to the country that emphasize mutual cooperation.

In addition to the NPC proposal, a request by the AFL-CIO (American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations) to enhance transparency around Apple's use of artificial intelligence was also voted down. The AFL-CIO's proposal called for a report detailing the company's AI practices and adherence to ethical guidelines. The rejection of this proposal aligns with shareholders' decisions to vote against other measures concerning civil liberties, employment equality, and pay disparity based on race and gender.

Conversely, shareholders voted in favor of approving the slate of the board of directors and the executive compensation plan. The preliminary tally of votes reflects a consensus among shareholders on the strategic and governance directions of the company, despite the dismissal of the aforementioned proposals.