Artificial Intelligence and Gender Equality

Conference Page

The conference has addressed the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and gender equality in the workplace. The event brought together policymakers, academics, trade union representatives, and civil society actors to explore how digital technologies can both challenge and advance women’s rights in professional environments.

Speakers emphasised that AI is not gender-neutral. Left unchecked, automated systems can reproduce and even amplify existing inequalities, affecting hiring, promotion, workplace surveillance, and access to opportunities. Keynote speaker Ivana Bartoletti highlighted the urgent need for AI governance that actively promotes inclusion and fairness, ensuring that technology works for all, rather than reinforcing biases.

The conference featured three thematic workshops. The first focused on inclusive digital ecosystems, discussing how EU and national policies can embed gender-responsive regulation into the design and implementation of AI technologies. The second addressed AI-driven work, safety, and health, examining risks such as cyberviolence, intrusive monitoring, and gendered workplace stress, and exploring strategies to protect workers’ autonomy and well-being. The third workshop emphasized AI literacy for trade unions and civil society, underscoring the importance of understanding AI systems to advocate effectively for transparency, accountability, and workers’ rights.