Event Recap: International Co-Creation Workshop on the "Debiaser" AI Tool

In a significant milestone for the BIAS consortium, an international co-creation workshop unfolded in the enchanting city of Venice on 7th December 2023. The primary objective of this collaborative endeavour was to propel the development of the groundbreaking “Debiaser” AI tool, which harnesses artificial intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Case-Based Reasoning models. The overarching mission is to address biases prevalent in Human Resources (HR) management, especially within the context of recruitment processes.

The workshop convened an interdisciplinary assembly of participants, including HR specialists, representatives from trade unions, non-governmental organisations advocating for underrepresented groups, legal experts, AI specialists, and philosophers specialising in equity and fairness concepts. This diverse cohort, building on the foundations laid by two prior rounds of co-creation held across different countries, sought to deepen the understanding of biases within HR practices.

Mapping Equity and Fairness: Conversations delved into the nuanced application of equity and fairness concepts in HR and recruitment practices across diverse global contexts. Participants actively engaged in discussions, shedding light on commonalities and distinctions, thus providing a foundational understanding for the global implementation of the “Debiaser.”

Refining the Debiaser: The workshop provided a platform for the validation, refinement, and expansion of the requirements and functionalities of the “Debiaser” tool. Collectively, participants worked towards ensuring the efficacy of the tool in mitigating bias during the recruitment process, fostering a collaborative and iterative approach to its development.

Evaluating Equity and Reliability: With a focus on accountability, the workshop explored qualitative and quantitative methodologies for assessing the equity and reliability of the “Debiaser.” This emphasis on robust evaluation methods aligns with the consortium’s commitment to ensuring the tool’s effectiveness and ethical implications.

Beyond its immediate objectives, the workshop served as a testament to the consortium’s dedication to enhancing global HR practices by instilling principles of equity and inclusivity. By creating a tool that empowers organisations to make fair and unbiased hiring decisions, the BIAS consortium is pioneering positive change in the realm of HR management.

As discussions unfolded against the backdrop of Venice’s timeless allure, approximately 150 participants found themselves immersed in a collective pursuit of knowledge and innovation. The workshop not only marked a pivotal stride in the creation of the “Debiaser” but also reinforced the importance of collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts in addressing societal challenges.

The city of Venice, with its rich history and cultural heritage, provided an inspiring backdrop for this transformative event. As the project progresses, stay tuned for further updates on this pioneering development and its impact on reshaping HR practices globally.