The Wenner-Gren Foundation Generative AI Policy

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged with stunning speed and scope—transforming the way many people write, think, and work. From the halls of academia to editorial offices, Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are already embedded in workflows that touch everything from brainstorming to content creation. With these sweeping changes come new and urgent questions about accountability, equity, intellectual property, and labor. For institutions rooted in the human sciences, such as the Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research, the stakes are especially high.

In response, the Foundation has developed and adopted its first formal Generative AI Policy. Drafted in collaboration by the Board of Trustees, the Advisory Council, and Foundation staff during fall 2024, the policy was finalized in March 2025. It aims to offer a thoughtful, flexible framework for the responsible use of Generative AI in alignment with Wenner-Gren’s mission to advance anthropological knowledge, amplify the field’s impact, and foster inclusivity.

A Deliberate and Collaborative Process

Recognizing that Generative AI is both powerful and complex, the Foundation undertook a careful and collaborative process to shape the policy. Discussions considered how Generative AI might assist in achieving the Foundation’s goals—such as improving workflows or expanding access—while also scrutinizing potential harms. Special attention was paid to how Generative AI intersects with anthropology’s ethical obligations, particularly in terms of confidentiality, originality, and the sensitive nature of anthropological data.

The policy builds upon Wenner-Gren’s long-standing commitment to transparency, ethical research practices, and the safety of scholars and communities alike.

Core Principles and Policy Highlights

The new policy is grounded in three guiding principles: Transparency, Pedagogy, and Safety.

• Transparency calls for openness about the use of Generative AI across all areas of the Foundation’s work—from grant applications to internal operations—so that its effects can be understood and assessed.
• Pedagogy affirms that Generative AI cannot replace the critical and creative thinking at the heart of anthropological inquiry.
• Safety emphasizes the need to avoid using Generative AI in ways that put researchers or communities at risk, particularly through data misuse or exposure of confidential information.

These principles shape the following policy components:

• Applicants and grantees are encouraged to disclose their use of Generative AI in a confidential section of the application. While use is not prohibited, responsibility for the originality and accuracy of content rests entirely with the applicant.
• Reviewers are prohibited from using Generative AI in any way that compromises confidentiality. Uploading application materials to any Generative AI platform is strictly forbidden.
• Foundation staff may use Generative AI for routine tasks, but only with written supervisor approval and never with confidential or proprietary information. Subscription-based tools are preferred for added security.
• Other stakeholders, including partners and contractors, are asked to develop their own Generative AI guidelines consistent with the Foundation’s values.

Next Steps

The Foundation has outlined a set of action items to support and expand implementation of the policy, such as:

• A new confidential section will be added to grant applications for disclosing Generative AI use.
• Reviewer documents—including confidentiality agreements and evaluation forms—will be updated to reflect the policy.
• Staff training workshops will be developed to build confidence and competence in using Generative AI responsibly.
• Internal tools, such as custom-built Generative AI applications for funding analysis and translation services, will be explored.

The Wenner-Gren Foundation’s Generative AI Policy marks a measured, mission-driven approach to a rapidly evolving technology. As Generative AI continues to reshape the landscape of research and communication, Wenner-Gren seeks to navigate this terrain with integrity, curiosity, and care.