Code of Equality: Building fair & trustworthy AI

The use of artificial intelligence has become central for data collection, processing, and service provision. As part of the developments of AI, automated decision-making systems (ADM) refer to a decision-making process that uses algorithms, with little or no human involve- ment. ADM systems can quickly process large amounts of information based on predefined criteria, identify patterns, make predictions, or perform other tasks.

While the use of ADM systems in the public sector has grown in Estonia and Lithuania, the understanding of potential discrimination risks remains low. The Estonian Gender Equality and Equal Treatment Commissioner, in cooperation with partners from the Lithuanian Equal Oppor- tunities Ombudsperson, Tallinn University of Technology, the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs analysed, within the EU CERV funded EQUITECH project, three ADM systems used within public sector in Estonia. The results of the analysis show that there are no clear mea- sures to mitigate discrimination risks.

The conference CODE OF EQUALITY: Building Fair and Trustworthy AI offers a platform to shape new ethical standards to deploy ADM systems, critically examining opportunities and risks, and fostering collaboration to build a just digital future for Europe. By bringing together EU and national policymakers, AI and non-dis- crimination researchers and AI developers, the conference creates a unique environment where technical and philosophical ideas merge to ensure that the future of public sector ADM systems will be co-created with fairness and equality at its core.

The conference will equip participants with new, hands-on and thought-provoking tools and knowledge around ethical, transparent, and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision-making (ADM) systems within the public sector. At the confer- ence we will find answer to key questions:

• How can trustworthy and fair ADM systems be developed in European Union Member States’ public sector?
• How can public sector ADM systems safe- guard transparency and equality?

The two-day program begins with engaging high-level political discussion around the future of ADM and non-discrimination in the public sector. The evening offers opportunities for networking among experts and decision-mak- ers.

The second day focuses on practical perspec- tives, featuring keynote speakers from leading experts and interactive discussions in smaller groups. Participants can choose between three thematic tracks:

• Auditing Fairness in ADM Systems to ensure non-discrimination
• Legal Responsibilities and Public Sector Accountability in deploying the ADM systems in public sector
• Equality by design