What does it take to build AI systems that are fair, trustworthy, and inclusive?
This week in Berlin, we brought together researchers, employers, talent acquisition professionals, AI developers, policymakers, civil society representatives, and job seekers to explore one of the most important questions shaping the future of work:
How can AI help expand opportunity rather than reinforce bias and discrimination?
As AI increasingly influences recruitment and other high-impact decisions, it is essential that these systems promote fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for everyone, especially for women and other groups that have historically faced barriers in the labour market.
Some of the strongest themes emerging from our discussions included:
• Transparency – People should understand when AI is being used, where it influences decisions, and what role humans continue to play.
• Reducing bias – AI systems must be designed, tested, and monitored to minimize discrimination and create more equitable outcomes across gender and other protected characteristics.
• Recognising human potential – Hiring should value transferable skills, lived experience, and capabilities that cannot be captured by keywords alone.
• Explainability and accountability – Individuals deserve meaningful explanations and clear criteria behind AI-assisted decisions.
• Human connection still matters – Even in an AI-enabled world, participants consistently highlighted the importance of in-person conversations that allow people to see beyond a CV and build genuine trust.
These discussions are part of a broader effort to develop practical recommendations for policymakers, employers, technology providers, and civil society on the responsible use of AI in recruitment and employment.
This is only the beginning. We look forward to sharing the findings from the workshops and continuing the conversation as we work together to build AI that creates more inclusive and equitable workplaces for everyone.
AIRISE is an European Union funded program, initiated by WIDE+, and organized by impactmania. With support of Berlin Partner.