This Policy Dialogue, the second in the EPC’s Disruptive Technologies Series and supported by Dell, looked at the challenges and possibilities related to the use of algorithms for business and society and the implications for EU policymaking. Algorithms are now increasingly taking decisions on our behalf. With large amounts of data, algorithms are now able to replicate human decision-making processes and replace us in activities that, so far, we thought only possible for humans e.g. medical diagnostics, criminal justice and journalism. However, the majority of us do not understand how an algorithm works, nor to what extent it may already be incorporated in decision-making processes. Given the increased use of algorithms by public bodies and private companies, there is a pressing need to raise awareness and look at the opportunities offered by such technologies, as well as the implications. This event focused on contributing to a wider, shared understanding of the role of algorithms with a view to identifying problems and emerging issues, as well as possible solutions to address them.

Speakers included: Annika Hedberg, Senior Policy Analyst, European Policy Centre, Rik Vera, Chairman of the Board of Directors & Partner, nexxworks, Assaf Natanzon, Vice President of Advanced Technology, Dell EMC, Marcel Boulogne, Head of Sector, Observatory on the Online Platform Economy, DG Connect, European Commission, Klaudia Majcher, Digital Policy Analyst, European Political Strategy Centre.