Gendering Algorithms for AI Governance

A growing global concern is that automated recognition systems may exacerbate and reinforce existing biases that different societies have with respect to gender, age, race, and sexual orientation. Questions around the consequences of automated gender recognition are particularly poorly understood and often underestimated.

Full project title

Gendering Algorithms for Artificial Intelligence Governance

Project description

This interfaculty and interdisciplinary pilot project explores the interplay of two major contemporary global transformations: digital technologies and gender identity. In particular, we examine the consequences of gender classifier systems in artificial intelligence (AI), drawing on computer science, law, philosophy, politics, and gender studies. The motivating premise is that new global technologies can – if not subject to suitable governance arrangements – perpetuate or even exacerbate unjust discriminations around gender identities, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community. The seed grant will be used to conduct a literature review, execute a preliminary survey, and convene interdisciplinary workshops, thereby building a community at Leiden University surrounding the topic of diversity and inclusion in AI and laying the groundwork for larger grant-supported projects.