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Cochrane, the Campbell Collaboration, JBI, and the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence have jointly released a position statement establishing principles for the responsible use of AI in evidence synthesis. This coordinated effort represents a major development in shaping how AI is integrated into the creation of high-quality and trustworthy research.

Evidence syntheses, including systematic reviews, depend on strong research integrity. Across the field, there is broad recognition that AI and automation could significantly transform how evidence syntheses are conducted, while also bringing potential disruption. To ensure that evidence synthesis remains a reliable foundation for evidence-informed decision making, the participating organizations have collaborated on a practical and responsible approach to AI adoption.

The statement formally supports the Responsible Use of AI in Evidence SynthEsis (RAISE) recommendations, a framework designed to guide ethical, transparent, and accountable AI implementation throughout the evidence synthesis workflow. It sets clear expectations for evidence synthesists, including transparent reporting of AI use, maintaining responsibility for methodological decisions, and ensuring that AI does not compromise rigor or integrity.

The statement conveys that aligning leading organizations around shared principles establishes a unified standard for responsible AI integration. It underscores the importance of ensuring that AI enhances the quality and efficiency of evidence synthesis rather than undermining established research practices. The guidance aims to help evidence synthesists make well-supported decisions and navigate the evolving AI landscape with clarity.

The position statement also acknowledges both the opportunities and risks associated with AI, particularly with large language models. It calls for human oversight, transparency, and justification whenever AI tools are applied in evidence synthesis. Additionally, it urges AI developers to align with RAISE principles by offering clear documentation, describing limitations, and addressing potential biases.

The statement has been published simultaneously in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Campbell Systematic Reviews, JBI Evidence Synthesis, and Environmental Evidence, illustrating a collective commitment to responsible and trustworthy innovation across the evidence synthesis community.