Ensuring Non-Discrimination in Artificial Intelligence Requires New Expertise – Also in Regulatory Oversight
The Non-Discrimination Ombudsman’s office is launching a new project aimed at increasing the knowledge and expertise of both the Ombudsman and other authorities regarding equality in the use of artificial intelligence. Additionally, we will pilot proactive supervision of discrimination risks within the framework of this project.
The importance of this project is underscored by the fact that AI is becoming an increasingly central part of our daily lives: it affects areas such as recruitment, healthcare, insurance and banking services, the work of security authorities, and other public services. While AI can streamline processes, improve services, and promote equality in many ways, it also carries risks. Without careful planning, testing, and oversight, AI systems can reinforce biases and discriminatory practices.
The project’s launch coincides with the entry into force of the EU's AI Regulation in August 2024, which introduces obligations and prohibitions for AI system developers and deployers aimed at preventing discrimination in the use of AI. This also places new demands on authorities responsible for monitoring the implementation of fundamental and human rights. In this project, we will enhance our own expertise as well as that of other key actors , particularly public authorities, on non-discrimination and equality in AI. The training package is expected to be ready and available to target groups in early 2025.
We will pilot proactive supervision based on the guidelines developed within the project. Proactive supervision is particularly important for AI, as supervision based solely on discrimination complaints is insufficient: AI systems are often opaque, and it can be difficult for individuals to access information about how they function. It is also crucial that proactive supervision addresses the communal and societal harms that AI systems may cause, as well as the obligations to promote equality. The selection of supervision targets will be based on research, studies and other information that indicate where pilot supervisory efforts will be most beneficial. Potential areas for supervision include employee recruitment, residence permits for foreign nationals, and decisions in banking and insurance services.
Additionally, we will build stakeholder collaboration and establish structures for effective oversight and the promotion of equality. We are not undertaking this project alone but in partnership with counterparts from equality bodies in Belgium and Portugal. The project is supported by the Council of Europe, which has previously developed and implemented training programs on AI and equality in countries such as France and the United Kingdom. Our two-year project is funded by the European Union and The Council of Europe (The Technical Support Instrument, TSI).
We look forward to acquiring new knowledge and exploring future collaboration opportunities that will help us contribute to the development of AI as a tool for building a more equal Finland and Europe.
The Project is co-funded by the European Union via the Technical Support Instrument, and implemented by the Council of Europe, in co-operation with the European Commission.
