Unlocking Potential, Navigating Pitfalls: Digital Poverty and AI's Dual Impact

Artificial intelligence is likely to have profound impacts on society. In the last year, we have seen public, government and business interest in AI increase significantly. A considerable focus of debate concerns how these technologies can be deployed ethically while mitigating high-risk, but low probability harms. Yet an element of the debate that needs much more attention is the impact that AI is already having and the risks it poses to marginalised communities. For individuals facing social and digital exclusion, AI could create a whole host of benefits, but it also could create a range of risks which could further entrench existing inequalities. This panel will bring together experts to explore strategies for maximising AI's benefits while minimising its potential harms for individuals facing digital poverty.