Latest

In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, the Digital Skills and Jobs Platform is proud to introduce new featured content focusing on digital skills for individuals on the spectrum. As part of the Platform’s commitment to fostering inclusion and accessibility, a range of new digital skills resources and training offers have been curated specifically designed to support individuals with autism in honing their talents and mastering essential digital competencies. With technology becoming increasingly integrated into daily life, digital literacy is no longer just a desirable skill but a necessity. These new additions aim to provide valuable support and guidance every step of the way.

Breaking down barriers through technology

One of the most significant barriers faced by individuals with autism is the stigma and misconceptions surrounding their abilities. However, the digital realm offers a level playing field where merit is often valued over conventional social norms. Online platforms such as coding forums, digital art communities, and remote work opportunities provide spaces where individuals can showcase their talents based solely on their skills and contributions, transcending barriers imposed by social prejudice.

Furthermore, assistive technologies play a crucial role in levelling the playing field for individuals with autism by providing tailored support to accommodate their unique needs. From communication apps that facilitate non-verbal communication to productivity tools that aid in organization and time management, technology empowers individuals with autism to navigate daily challenges more effectively and participate fully in society.

Featured training courses and resources for individuals on the autism spectrum

The Digital Skills and Jobs Platform is thrilled to introduce a range of new training offers tailored specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum. Among these offerings is Digital You a comprehensive course designed to promote inclusion in the digital realm. This program covers a diverse range of topics, including digital literacy, online safety, and social media navigation, all customized to the unique needs and preferences of individuals with autism. Additionally, DigitAbility focuses on unlocking career success for students with cognitive disabilities, providing practical training in essential digital skills such as computer proficiency, internet navigation, and software applications. Finally, Empower People with Autism, Dyslexia with Digital Skills by Udemy is a free course designed to support parents and caregivers in ensuring that the benefits of digitalisation also extend to Special Needs people.

In addition to the training offers, we are proud to present an array of digital skills resources aimed at empowering individuals on the autism spectrum. My Virtual World is a Erasmus+ project that that aims to raise awareness on how autistic people are impacted through the job-seeking journey, and help employers adopt practices that allow for the inclusion of employees on the autism spectrum. Similarly, IDEAL, another Erasmus+ project launched to address the lack of accessible online tools, trained professionals and educational methodologies adapted to autistic people in need of a high level of support. Furthermore, initiatives like Autism: Spectrum of Employment Skills (ASES) and NOW Group: training and jobs for people with learning difficulties and autism offer specialized training and job placement services to support individuals with autism in securing meaningful employment opportunities in the digital age. These resources not only enhance technical competencies but also foster confidence and independence, enabling individuals to thrive in today’s digital workforce.

Spotlight on Inclusive Digital Initiatives: the EDSA24 Awards

The 2024 European Digital Skills Awards edition is underway. This year’s awards edition features projects across five distinct categories, including the notable Inclusion in the Digital World. This category recognizes the importance of addressing the digital divide and acknowledges initiatives that cater to marginalized groups, including people with learning disabilities or Autism. Notably, last year, the EDSA 2023 edition had as finalists exemplary practices such as DigiAcademy and Accessia. These good practices were acknowledged for their efforts in supporting digital skills and employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with accessibility needs, respectively. These initiatives exemplify the commitment to ensuring equal access and opportunities for all in the digital age.

As we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month and recognize the importance of fostering digital skills and employment opportunities for individuals on the spectrum, we invite you to stay tuned for updates on this year’s EDSA awards. There might be even more ground-breaking projects further demonstrating the power of technology to create a more inclusive society. Join us as we continue to champion diversity, accessibility, and empowerment in the digital era.

Global population displacement is a key issue in our modern world with conflict and climate change forcing many people to leave their home regions or countries. Refugee populations are set to rise with the number of people in Europe who have been forcibly displaced or who are stateless projected to rise to 24.9 Million people in 2024 as a result of the ongoing Russian war of aggression in Ukraine alongside continued instability in the Middle East.

Digital skills, displacement and Europe

While questions and concerns about migration to the EU are frequently discussed in the political and media spheres, the share of refugees in the EU sits at just 1.5% compared to its total population. Although this is comparatively low compared with other regions in the world, supporting those affected by forced displacement is rightly at the forefront of many governmental and non-profit initiatives throughout Europe. This has especially been the case as the realities of displacement become ever more present with the war in Ukraine leading to the largest displacement due to armed conflict seen in Europe since World War Two. In the digital age, digital solutions and support mechanisms are increasingly a key part of these policies, services and charitable activities.

“The development of digital technology, similar to discussions about migration, is often seen through a lens of fear of the unknown and scaremongering. Recent debates about AI hinge on the premise of a ‘fifth industrial revolution’ which will force people out of work and require them to reskill. It’s clear that with the pace of the digital revolution, everyone in any type of work must be ready to embrace change and lifelong learning when it comes to digital skills”.

For those who have already been forced out of work due to displacement, the push to upskill and re-skill comes even faster. In addition, while many of us who work in office jobs have seen the convenience that working from home can bring, remote work brings additional benefits to transitory populations.

“If people are based in conflict zones, remote work can provide them the opportunity to keep working even in fragile contexts, and to continue work even as they are displaced (as long as internet and electricity are available). Remote work also offers the benefit of flexibility in case of return and to single parents or those with childcare obligations and may struggle to work outside the home.”

Digital infrastructure as an essential part of support initiatives for displaced people

When we consider support for people displaced by conflict, we often jump straight to the essentials of housing, clothing and most importantly safety. However digital connectivity and infrastructure is also vital and something that needs to be integrated into our basic services. It allows people to connect with loved ones but also to engage with their local community, employment opportunities and to continue learning.

Access to digital equipment is key, as are digital upskilling opportunities. There are also many people who are displaced by conflict who are highly digitally skilled and who can and should be supported to take a role in the upskilling of others in their displacement community and in the host community. In fact, at Humans in the Loop we work with many refugee-led organisations, such as Subul, which bring the digital skills of people displaced by conflict to the forefront and foster digital innovation both in areas of ongoing displacement and within the EU.

Building diversity and inclusion into AI systems and the IT sphere

It has become increasingly clear that in order to create ethical AI which does not perpetuate stereotypes and discrimination, all voices must be represented in the development of these models.

“It is only through the opening up of the IT sphere and ensuring that it equally represents our communities that we can create equitable technology and a digital world that represents the core values of the EU, freedom, democracy and human dignity. This must include people who have been displaced to Europe, both those who already possess the skills but also those who can contribute at an entry level position such as in the field of data labelling and validation”.

About the author

Hester Gartrell is Chief Impact Officer and Interim Director at Humans in the Loop Foundation. Originally from the UK but living and working in Bulgaria, Hester has a MSc in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Edinburgh and an in-depth understanding of religious and cultural contexts in both the Middle East and Europe. In her previous roles, including at Birkbeck, University of London, Hester has developed and led a variety of programmes focusing on inclusive educational outreach for children and adults who face additional barriers

About Humans in the Loop

A case study of access to digital upskilling and digital work for people affected by conflict

Providing digital upskilling and remote work opportunities to people affected by conflict is at the heart of what Humans in the Loop does. Through their award-winning social enterprise, they offer digital upskilling opportunities and annotation work, a key facet of the development of AI models. Through this model, Humans in the Loop has supported people currently based in conflict zones, and those displaced to the EU, to access opportunities in the global digital economy. Humans in the Loop’s mission not only aims to support people to be financially independent, but also to contribute to ethical AI and data for good. Providing access to our digital world and in turn, digital work is a vital part of European refugee policy and will only increase in importance as AI and digital technology develops.

Labour and skills shortages are on the rise in all EU Member States, and improving labour market participation is at the very heart of solving this problem. Despite advances in overall EU employment rate, skills gaps are apparent. This is especially the case for disadvantaged groups like refugees and migrants, women, and young people.

Notably, Eurostat estimates that 21% of today’s population aged 20-64 remains inactive, and requires targeted support to enter the labour market. In effect, this means that a substantial untapped potential is left behind. 

The Big Short: how large is the gap we’re staring at?

Skills shortages are reported by companies across all sizes and sectors in the EU economy, with particular challenges for SMEs. In one recent Eurobarometer study, 4 out 5 SMEs declared that it is difficult for them to find workers with the right skills, and more than half found it difficult to retain skilled workers. In an attempt to measure and bridge this gap, the Commission has identified 42 occupations that it considers as EU-wide shortage occupations. Labour shortages continue to persist across all sectors. 

The transition to a greener and more digital economy is already making an impact on skills as we know them, and this can trigger further mismatch between skills and the demands of the labour market. Only in the renewable energy sector, estimates point to 3.5 million new jobs opening up by 2030. The 2023 Employment and Social Developments in Europe (ESDE) report projects that investment needs for retraining, reskilling and upskilling in manufacturing of strategic net-zero technologies are estimated between 1.7 billion EUR and 4.1 billion EUR up to 2030. This corresponds to between 198 000 additional jobs and 468 000 additional jobs under different scenarios.

The increased uptake of advanced technologies like AI and big data is also projected to boost employment, but exacerbate skills shortages.

Getting on board those left behind

A large part of the unrealised potential of the EU labour market depends on activating societal groups lagging behind the digital transition. This is especially the case for women, lower-skilled adults, refugees and migrants, and older and younger people. The lower labour market participation of these groups leads to further shortages and bottlenecks. The potential contribution of women to increasing the activity rate is the highest among those groups, adding around 17.3 million more active people by 2030. 

The action plan: a roadmap to ensure success

The EU is not starting from scratch. The action plan is a key deliverable of the European Year of Skills, an EU-wide umbrella campaign with the objective of ensuring people have a quality job, and the skills to excel in it. It also builds on the numerous policy and funding mechanisms already in place at EU and Member States level, as well as by social partners who have been consulted on the plan. It furthermore builds on initiatives of the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan, policy guidance in the framework of the European Semester and EU funding support.

Under the Pact for Skills, 3.5 million workers have received training. And funding follows suit. The EU is investing around €65 billion in skills programmes, notably via the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) and European Social Fund Plus (ESF+). In the words of Nicolas Schmit, Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights,

“Europe’s labour market is at a crossroads: businesses are struggling to find workers to fill their vacancies, which is holding them back. We have an opportunity to bring more people onto the labour market, prepare them for the jobs in demand, and to boost Europe’s competitiveness. This Commission has introduced several measures to increase training, improve working conditions, and empower social partners, but more can and should be done. With everybody’s commitment, we can turn a corner on skills and labour shortages, and build an economy that works for people”.

Implementing this action plan is crucial for achieving the 2030 EU headline targets on skills and employment, aiming for 78% of employment and 60% adult participation in yearly training. There are five areas for action under the plan:

• Supporting underrepresented people to enter the labour market
• Providing support for skills development, training and education
• Improving working conditions
• Improving fair intra-EU mobility for workers and learners
• Attracting talent from outside the EU

Further reading

Download the Communication of the European Commission on the action plan. For a cleaner and more user-friendly view, download the Factsheet. Make sure to follow the latest developments straight onto the European Commission’s website. 

This year marks the return of the prestigious European Digital Skills Awards, an initiative of the European Commission aimed at rewarding the good practices that are helping Europeans gain the digital skills they need for life and work. Only a few days are left to send applications: the deadline is 8 April EOB, so if you are considering applying, now it is the moment to start writing!

The Digital Skills and Platform team has already received a large number of interesting projects and initiatives from all over Europe in the 5 categories of the Awards:

•    Empowering Youth in Digital
•    Digital Upskilling @ Work
•    Digital Skills for Education
•    Inclusion in the Digital World
•    Women in ICT Careers 

Organisations of all types can apply, as long as at least one of the applicants is based in an EU country: citizen initiatives, universities, EU funded projects, public and private entities and non-profits can all participate and gain recognition for their active contribution in supporting the Digital Decade targets set by the European Commission.

The focus of the awards is on digital skills, of all levels and for all; whether your organisation runs courses on basic digital skills, or is training and certifying digital professionals, or is supporting the digital up- and re-skilling of professionals in all sectors, we encourage you to apply.

To understand clearly if your project or initiative is eligible, and to figure out in which category you should include it, we invite you to read the How to apply section, and check the FAQ page, where we hope you will find answers to the many questions you might have.

Each project or initiative can be presented in only one of the 5 categories, and applicants will be able to detail who are their target publics and what impact they are having on the digital skills gap in their specific area of action. Among the criteria for a successful application there will be the innovative character of the project, the communication activities implemented to maximise reach, the attention to the sustainability and scalability of the project, but also the measures takes to ensure the inclusion of people of all abilities and of all social and cultural backgrounds.

We will announce the finalists after 25 May and the winners in June – so stay tuned!
If you are curious to know who won the previous editions of the Awards, check out the page dedicated to the past winners and get inspired by their projects.
Good luck to all the participants!

CloudCamp4SMEs, an EU-funded initiative, helps medium-sized businesses in the EU with digital transformation by offering affordable, high-quality training in Cloud Technologies. Developed by industry leaders like AWS and Adecco, it aims to upskill SMEs in high-demand digital skills. Now available on OnePass, it offers intermediate pathways like the

• Business Leaders and Managers.

• SME Employees pathway.

Tailored for business owners, executives, and IT leaders, this pathway equips participants with Cloud strategy expertise and tech integration insights. Completing the course enables them to attain the coveted AWS Cloud Essentials certification, empowering them to steer their SMEs towards digital excellence.

Enroll now and become the digital pioneer your team needs!

Check on their latest pathways to discover the benefits, strategic integration, and cost-saving strategies that will shape your company’s digital future. Unlock the power of the Cloud and gain the expertise to guide your SME to properly transform digitally.

Co-funded by the Europan Commission, upskill in Cloud at a great discount.

These types of courses, normally cost around ~3000€ but thanks to EU co-funding, it is offered on OnePass for just 290€, a unique opportunity to upskill in a technology that is proven to improve business performance and development as well as a trampoline for SMEs employees to boost their professional career.

Champion the digital revolution in your company by certifying your knowledge of AWS Cloud Essentials for Business Leaders with CloudCamp4SMEs.

Learn to:

• Articulate Cloud benefits and integration strategies.
• Develop and initiate Cloud adoption and deployment.
• Make critical decisions and assess Cloud migration needs.
• Prioritize security, competencies, and cost-saving plans.

The entry pathways for intermediate digital leaders and the start to more advanced pathways for High-Skilled SME Employees will be launched soon.

Discover more about the CloudCamp4SMEs’ opportunities.

The European Commission has welcomed a recent political agreement between the European Parliament and the Council regarding the Cyber Solidarity Act proposed in April 2023. This act aims to enhance cybersecurity across the EU, particularly in response to evolving cyber threats influenced by geopolitical events. The Cyber Solidarity Act includes three actions:

European Cybersecurity Alert System

The first aspect is the establishment of a European Cybersecurity Alert System, which includes National and Cross-border Cyber Hubs. These hubs will use advanced tools like Artificial Intelligence and data analytics to quickly detect cyber threats. They’ll provide real-time information to authorities, helping them respond effectively. In April 2023, two Member State groups were formed to launch a pilot phase of these tools and infrastructures under the Digital Europe Programme.

Cybersecurity Emergency Mechanism

The second aspect is the creation of a Cybersecurity Emergency Mechanism to better prepare for and respond to significant cyber incidents. This mechanism will focus on three main areas:

• Preparedness actions: Coordinating tests to identify vulnerabilities in critical sectors like healthcare or energy.

• EU Cybersecurity Reserve: Establishing a pool of incident response services from trusted providers. These services can be called upon by Member States, EU institutions, or third countries in case of major cyber incidents.

• Financial support for mutual assistance: Providing assistance to Member States affected by significant cyber incidents, including technical support from other Member States

European Cybersecurity Incident Review Mechanism

Thirdly, the proposal introduces a European Cybersecurity Incident Review Mechanism. Its purpose is to review and evaluate significant cyber incidents post-occurrence, aiming to offer recommendations for enhancing the EU’s cybersecurity posture.

Additionally, the European Parliament and Council agreed to amend the Cybersecurity Act, enabling European certification for managed security services. This certification ensures trusted providers in the EU Cybersecurity Reserve under the Cyber Solidarity Act. It strengthens cybersecurity, promoting trust and transparency in the supply chain, crucial for businesses and critical infrastructure.

Next steps

The agreement reached awaits formal approval from the European Parliament and the Council. Once approved, the Cyber Solidarity Act will come into effect on the 20th day after its publication in the Official Journal.

Discover more about the political agreement.

Exciting news! Applications for the upcoming September round of the MSc Artificial Intelligence programme – MAI4CAREU – at the University of Cyprus are now open! 

Established in 2022, MAI4CAREU focuses on human-centric, explainable, and responsible AI. It includes mandatory courses on AI ethics and entrepreneurship, prioritizing career counseling to empower students in launching their ventures. Co-funded by the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility, this program is developed in collaboration with esteemed partners including the University of Bologna, University of Ruse Angel Kanchev, CYENS Centre of Excellence, and technology businesses.

Join the programme in shaping the future of AI education and apply now to be part of the September intake!

MAI4CAREU Program: Skills to pursue careers in AI

In the MSc Artificial Intelligence programme at the University of Cyprus, jointly run by the Departments of Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering, students are provided with opportunities to experience a real AI work environment through internships at research centers and various companies, earning credits for their participation. The program enhances student experience by offering career counseling and establishing robust connections with industry, facilitating the acquisition of essential soft skills conducive to pursuing successful AI-related careers or establishing independent startups.

Check out more information on the programme!

Applications are open until May 2024

The University of Cyprus is accepting applications for the postgraduate programmes beginning in September 2024, by Friday 31 May 2024 until 12.00 EET.

Applications can be submitted electronically using the online application system

Digital skills are fundamental for one’s participation in today’s society. In rural areas, they can act as the glue bridging the gap between urban and rural communities and promoting socio-economic development in a sustainable way. 

If residents of rural areas have the same access to online resources and availability of public services – education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and government services, the gap gets smaller and smaller. Rural areas play a core role in the European ecosystem, and the European Commission has adopted a long-term vision for EU’s rural areas up to 2040. A Community of Practice also invites knowledge-exchange and sharing.

Rural areas and their potential

We often focus on modernising cities, that most European citizens live in. But did you know that rural areas cover 83% of EU territory? Or that EU’s rural areas are home to 137 million people? Hint: this is around 30% of Europeans!

Strengthening digital skills of people in rural areas enables them to make full use of the benefits brought about by the digital era. The EU long-term vision aims to see rural areas ‘fully benefiting from digital innovation with equal access to emerging technologies, widespread digital literacy and opportunities to acquire more advanced skills’. Under the EU vision, connectivity between rural areas will also improve – and targeted investments in infrastructure, technology, and skills development are coordinated by the flagship initiative ‘Rural digital futures’.

Find funding for your rural project via the Rural Toolkit

Acting as a comprehensive guide to EU funding and support opportunities for rural areas within the EU, the Rural toolkit can show you the way to get your rural project financed, or find partners and expand your margins.

It is a good tool for local authorities, institutions and stakeholders, businesses and individuals  – helping them identify and capitalise on existing EU funds, programmes and other funding and support initiatives, and to foster development in rural territories.

Digitally-savvy rural areas in the digital decade

A range of initiatives aim to foster the sustainable development of digital capabilities in rural areas. Digital Communities is an initiative that targets seniors living in rural areas (generally digitally-excluded). The Erasmus+ funded Growing Together (GT) project offers a voice for young people, with a focus on those coming from rural areas and engages them in debates on the future of food production, or wider issues. More than 3.000 youngsters were engaged in the project’s context.

Growing Together (GT) provided a voice for young people, particularly those from rural areas who are directly impacted by our food system, to engage with crucial debates on the future of food production, & the wider debates on the future of Europe. The MAIs Project – Women farmers in the inner territories, which started in 2020 is a pilot project with a potential to be replicated in other contexts and regions, and encompasses two municipalities in Portugal – São Pedro do Sul and Sabugal.

The Finnish KyLille project offers training and supports the sustainable development and acquisition of digital skills of Finns living in villages. The Slovenia’s  Simbioza Mobiln@ initiative has been bridging the digital divide for older people by hosting a mobile classroom with workshops and learning activities on basic digital literacy for the elderly.

Discover a range of other initiatives through the map of activities addressing rural areas. 

The European Commission has put forward a strategic vision ”Artificial Intelligence in the European Commission (AI@EC) Communication” to guide how artificial intelligence (AI) is developed and used within its organization. This plan aims to ensure that AI systems used by the Commission are lawful, safe, and trustworthy. Additionally, it is designed to prepare the Commission for implementing the EU AI Act, which is the world’s first comprehensive law on AI.

Here’s what the Commission will do when using or implementing AI:

• Create clear guidelines for its staff (the people who use, develop, or buy AI systems) on effectively using these systems.
• Evaluate and categorize AI systems based on their potential risks, using these guidelines.
• Avoid using AI systems that don’t align with European values or could harm people’s security, safety, health, or rights.
• Establish structures within the organization to handle its responsibilities regarding AI.

The Commission’s plan for a safe, fair and human-centered digital future

The Communication outlines the Commission’s plan to enhance its Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a way that is safe, fair, and considerate of people. This involves improving internal systems for transparent and ethical AI use. Additionally, the Commission aims to provide support and guidance to other EU public administrations to assist them in adopting and effectively utilizing AI technologies. Moreover, the Commission plans to foster partnerships with innovative startups and GovTech companies, leveraging their expertise and resources to advance the responsible deployment of AI across various sectors and services.

AI Skills for All at the European Commission

The profound changes that AI will bring to our work processes reinforce our commitment to fully digitalize the Commission, a key mission of the Commissioner for Budget and Administration. Digital skills are essential for all staff, regardless of position or age, as they form the foundation of work. AI skills will be integral to this transformation. Embracing new technology is crucial for everyone, and this transition must be inclusive, considering differences in digital literacy and abilities among staff. To support this, the European Commission’s staff will receive targeted training and guidance, including opportunities for reskilling and upskilling.

Read the Communication and discover the European Commission’s strategic vision to foster the internal development and use of lawful, safe and trustworthy AI.

UNESCO’s Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2024 held in Kranj, Slovenia marked a pivotal moment in the global dialogue surrounding the responsible development and governance of artificial intelligence (AI). Among the significant announcements made during this forum was the launch of the Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory, a ground-breaking platform designed to foster knowledge, expert insights, and good practices in the realm of AI ethics and governance.

The Role of UNESCO in Global AI Governance

The launch of the Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory was spearheaded by key figures in the field, including Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO, David Leslie, Director of Ethics and Responsible Innovation Research at the Alan Turing Institute, a Professor of Ethics, Technology, and Society at Queen Mary University of London, and Reinhard Scholl, Programme Chair of AI for Good.

This collaborative effort between UNESCO, the Alan Turing Institute, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) signifies a commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the rapid advancement of AI technologies. The Observatory serves as a centralized repository of information, insights, and resources aimed at guiding policymakers, regulators, academics, the private sector, and civil society in navigating the ethical and governance dimensions of AI.

Governments around the world have decisively moved on from the question of whether to regulate AI to the urgent question of how. The Observatory aims to start providing some of the answers for how to go about this complex but vital task.

Gabriela Ramos
Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO

Key Features of the Observatory

At its core, the Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory aims to provide a comprehensive resource for stakeholders to confront the ethical dilemmas and societal implications associated with AI deployment. Building upon UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, which was adopted by 193 countries in 2021, the Observatory seeks to operationalize key principles and values outlined in the recommendation through practical tools and methodologies.

Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM)

One such tool is the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), which enables governments to evaluate their preparedness to implement AI ethically and responsibly. By leveraging RAM, countries can gain insights into their sociotechnical landscape, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies to mitigate potential risks associated with AI deployment.

AI Ethics and Governance Lab

The Observatory also hosts the AI Ethics and Governance Lab, a collaborative platform where experts from around the world can contribute insights, research findings, and policy recommendations on critical issues related to AI ethics and governance. Through the AI Ethics and Governance Lab, stakeholders can access cutting-edge research, case studies, and best practices aimed at fostering responsible AI innovation and deployment.

Global Hub

Moreover, the Observatory serves as a Global Hub for sharing information and data on AI governance practices and trends. Country profiles offer detailed snapshots of the AI landscape in different nations, while global statistics provide insights into key metrics such as reported AI incidents, national AI strategies, private investment in AI, and patent applications related to AI technologies.

UNESCO’s Commitment to AI Ethics

The launch of the Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory underscores UNESCO’s commitment to promoting the ethical development and deployment of AI technologies worldwide. By fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, the Observatory seeks to empower stakeholders to harness the transformative potential of AI while safeguarding fundamental human rights, promoting inclusivity, and mitigating the risks of unintended consequences.

As the global community grapples with the ethical and governance challenges posed by AI, initiatives like the Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable, sustainable, and human-centric future for artificial intelligence. Through continued collaboration and dialogue, stakeholders can work towards harnessing the full potential of AI while upholding ethical principles and values that prioritize the well-being of society as a whole.

It’s not that often that we get a chance to sit down with one of the fastest-rising stars in EU digital policy.

Meet Savvina Papadaki – Senior Digital Policy Manager at Samsung, and a proud alumna of the AI4Gov Master’s Program.

Getting into tech without a technical background: mission impossible?

Tell us a bit about your background – what did you study, and how did you end up in the digital field? 

My background differs a bit from the normal path: actually, my bachelor’s degree is in translation and interpreting. From quite early on, I was interested in the intersection of translation with technology, and the opportunities opened up by digital technologies in the field (like the so-called ‘cat tools’ used in translation, and other digital tools). When I finished, I first came to Brussels to work as an interpreter/ translator. But I ended up working for a Greek member of the European Parliament instead, and got exposed to regulatory files. That’s when I found what I wanted to do. It took me another two Masters to get there: one in public policy, and then the AI4Gov program a bit later.

My first real interaction with the tech sector? Copyright in the digital age. 

I was sold: on the potential of AI and all the elements of safety and security that have to go hand in hand with it. The AI4Gov program helped me learn more about AI, even if my background was not technical – it was a way to get my foot in the door. This doesn’t mean that I woke up proficient in coding though: I still can’t write code, and I probably never will. But I understand how it works, how to identify an ethical and good use of the technology, and all it may entail.

For the last 2 years I’ve been busy monitoring digital legislation in Europe, and beyond.

Impressive. People often think that you need a background in computer science to work in digital, so it’s very interesting to hear how you changed direction. Perhaps this can be an inspiration for young people – to know that they’re not limited to 1 career choice only. 

Yes, for sure. I myself am a true example you can do many different things. I mean, you becoming a doctor may no longer be possible, but anything else we want – sure!

Moving them mountains – more women working in digital

Let’s get a bit more personal. Can we talk about the challenges you faced as a young woman working in the field, or how the sector dynamics have changed? 

I think the issue stems from many women being directed towards theoretical studies rather than STEM. But this doesn’t mean that girls are not good at that kind of subjects, it’s just how it goes – step by step, girls at school do not acquire the skills to do tech or digital type of jobs. I do think this has changed lately though: in many tech companies, women make up the majority of employees. I can imagine that if you are an AI engineer or a data scientist, gender parity is very much still a problem – these are areas that are considered quite male dominated. Now, when it comes to departments like legal, public affairs or interaction with the digital sector, I think there are a lot of interested and capable women.

Throughout my professional career, I have noticed that women tend to be more curious, and more likely to change career paths. They are constantly developing and advancing, even if they lack the technical skills to excel in digital jobs. I saw this in my Master’s program too: there were many women there, some older than me and already professionals in the public sector for example, that saw a need to upgrade their digital competence and realised how important that is too. And in terms of barriers? It’s not that simple. I wouldn’t say there are actual barriers in the sense that you wouldn’t be hired if you are a woman – but the fact remains that many more men have studied this, whereas women have to match their competence level.

Very clear. Thank you. I have a couple more questions about today’s job market – and the one of the future. What do you think about young people working in the digital sector? And how is AI likely to impact our daily work?  

Good question! I’ve been reading quite a bit about this recently. I don’t think – and never have thought – that AI will result in fewer jobs. I think that AI and other technologies are already transforming the labour market. For example, in my line of work there are a range of AI tools you can use to do something more quickly, or facilitate a process. But you will never end up in a situation where the tool replaces you – and I understand that this may not be the case in other sectors, but the job market will shift to accommodate this. So, rather than a loss or gain, it’s a different balancing test all along: you take away the jobs from one sector, but they end up in another. I get the fear though, and all the ‘black mirror’ horror images in our minds. But in the long run, technology – as everything else – is ultimately here. So we need to work on making it more secure and safe, rather than worrying that machines are taking over our jobs.

Staying on top of things: changing skillsets

One more question on skills in general, and digital skills. What skills do you need to work in the sector, and what kind of skills have you gained? What advice would you give to a young person starting out in tech, STEM, or the digital field? 

There is no exhaustive list of skills I think. I was born in 1991, and the digital skills I learned at school are totally different to what kids are studying now. You want to work in this field? You need to be on top of everything. It’s not just the digital sector, the whole labour market is following exactly this trend. You have to be aware of all changes, all the time, and try and understand how different technologies are developing and what is taking place. Liking learning helps. And it’s not just ICT skills that you need: there’s also the soft skills aspect – like the flexibility to understand different demands and requirements of your job, and what you have to do. Sometimes I regret not pursuing STEM classes when I was younger (I was good in STEM). It would have been helpful now. So my advice would be that if you’ve found your passion, keep going! In Greece, when I was younger, choosing your career path was such a big deal. Life doesn’t work like that. Choose what you enjoy and what you take pleasure in, and discover your passions as you go along. When you work for a bit, you’ll find more areas that call to you. And keep learning.

You don’t have the right set of skills? There’s 1000 ways to acquire new skills, even if you’re short on cash. There are tons of online platforms and courses offered for free, and many opportunities nowadays to get and improve one’s digital skills, regardless of the stage you’re at in your career. You can always do something else – there are a few things you cannot do.