In a world shaped more and more by artificial intelligence, discrimination is taking on new forms as algorithms and automated systems are increasingly influencing decisions that impact people's lives. With AI technologies now embedded in many aspects of our daily life, concerns about algorithmic bias and reinforcement of inequality have highlighted the necessity of implementing strong safeguards, in line with European standards.

To address these matters, equality bodies and Ombudsperson’s institutions from the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership regions gathered on an online event to explore the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on equality and non-discrimination. The workshop, supported by the European Union and the Council of Europe joint programmes addressed key challenges related to algorithmic bias, automated decision making and the use of AI in public services. The event offered a comprehensive overview of the evolving European legal and policy frameworks aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and protection of human rights.

Through interactive case studies and practical examples, participants familiarised with AI-related discrimination and explored the role of equality bodies in monitoring AI systems, supporting victims of discrimination and promoting human rights-based approaches to AI governance.

The workshop emphasised the importance of the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law - the first international legally binding treaty on AI. In addition, the event further stressed the relevance of the Recommendation of the Committee of Ministers on Equality and Artificial Intelligence. Discussions highlighted the need for continued cooperation among institutions to address emerging challenges and strengthen protection against AI-related discrimination.

This event was organised within the action “Promoting equality and combating racism and intolerance in the Western Balkans” and the project “Promoting equality and non-discrimination: towards more resilient and inclusive societies”, which are respectively parts of the European Union/Council of Europe joint programmes “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye” and “Partnership for Good Governance.