Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world, but its rapid adoption comes with challenges—one of the most pressing being fairness. The AEQUITAS project, funded by Horizon Europe, is on a mission to tackle these challenges head-on by developing tools that ensure AI systems are fair, inclusive, and equitable. A key aspect of this ambitious initiative is the involvement of several associations that represent underrepresented and vulnerable groups.

These associations are a key element of the AEQUITAS methodology, providing vital insights to shape technology and ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and respected in AI development. Their work is crucial in bridging the gap between social realities and technical advancements, ensuring that AI systems are not only technologically robust but also socially responsible.

Why the Associations Matter in AEQUITAS

The associations involved in AEQUITAS play a pivotal role in addressing the discriminatory impacts of AI, which often disproportionately affect groups such as women, the LGBTIQ+ community, and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. By collaborating with social scientists and technical developers, these associations ensure that AI tools incorporate social and legal requirements from the ground up.

Through interviews, focus groups, and community engagement, the associations help define the design requirements for AI systems. This collaborative approach enables AEQUITAS to create a practical, controlled environment for testing fairness in AI—a space where stakeholders can understand and address issues like bias and inequality in real-world applications, such as healthcare, hiring, and education.

Meet the Associations Driving Change

AEQUITAS brings together a diverse consortium of partners, including five key associations, each contributing their unique expertise and perspectives:

1. Period Think Tank Aps (Period)

A national intersectional feminist organization based in Italy, Period bridges feminist activism with data activism to close the gender data gap. They produce research, reports, and policies that promote gender equity and provide tools and training to public and private sectors.

2. Arcigay

Italy’s leading association for promoting the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community, Arcigay works to build a society free of discrimination. They run cultural and educational programs, offer psychological and social support, and advocate for human and civil rights for all.

3. Women in AI (WAI)

A global non-profit organization empowering women and minorities in AI and data science, Women in AI fosters ethical, inclusive AI practices through education, research, and community building. With over 8,000 members in 140 countries, they are a driving force for diversity in the AI industry.

4. Eurocadres

A European trade union representing six million professionals and managers, Eurocadres advocates for quality working conditions and freedom of mobility. Their work in social dialogue and advocacy ensures that professional voices influence policies for a stronger, knowledge-based Europe.

5. Asociación Rayuela

Based in the Canary Islands, Rayuela is dedicated to fighting poverty and social exclusion. They specialize in supporting vulnerable groups, such as gender violence survivors, immigrants, and people with disabilities, by creating programs for social and labor integration.

A Collaborative Approach for a Fairer Future

By integrating the perspectives of these associations with input from researchers, developers, and other stakeholders, AEQUITAS is building a framework that not only detects and mitigates bias but also anticipates fairness issues before they arise. This collaborative approach ensures that the tools and methodologies developed are practical, inclusive, and capable of addressing real-world challenges.

Together, the AEQUITAS project and its association partners are paving the way for a future where AI serves everyone—fairly, equitably, and responsibly.