ECAT Research Workshop: Shaping the Future of Algorithmic Transparency

On 27 November 2024, the European Centre for Algorithmic Transparency (ECAT) hosted a pivotal Research Workshop in Brussels, bringing together leading minds in academia, policy, and industry to confront the pressing challenges of the digital era. The event, held in the Walter Hallstein Room at the European Commission’s Berlaymont building, highlighted the critical role of algorithmic transparency in fostering a fair and safe online environment. 

The event opened with a session on algorithmic auditing, a field rapidly gaining significance as regulators grapple with the complexities of holding tech platforms accountable. Speakers examined the methodologies needed to ensure audits are not only thorough but also actionable. Discussions ranged from identifying systemic risks to the challenges faced by auditors in striking a balance between transparency and proprietary concerns. 

Later in the morning, attention turned to automated content moderation, a system that now governs half of all moderation decisions on EU platforms. This session delved into the technologies underpinning these tools, exploring their effectiveness and potential biases. Panellists debated the role of generative AI in moderating harmful content, while also addressing the persistent need for human oversight in scenarios where cultural context or nuance is crucial. 

A session focusing on online gender-based violence took center stage in the afternoon. Experts unpacked the increasing prevalence of misogyny and harassment in digital spaces, tracing its roots in the "manosphere" and the proliferation of harmful technologies like deepfakes. The session also examined platform responsibilities in tackling abuse and highlighted the importance of accessible data for researchers seeking innovative solutions. 

Closing the workshop was a discussion on recommender systems, one of the most debated aspects of digital platforms. Experts shared insights into the algorithms shaping users’ online experiences and their role in spreading harmful or illegal content. The session offered a critical examination of design choices that could mitigate these risks and emphasized the need for greater transparency to empower users and inform research. 

"This workshop embodies ECAT’s commitment to fostering collaboration between research and policy, bringing together a diverse group of experts to tackle some of the most pressing issues in online safety,” said Alberto Pena Fernandez, Head of Unit at ECAT. “Our journey has been one of growth, learning, and connection, and events like this are crucial for shaping the future of a safer and more trustworthy digital landscape for everyone in Europe.”

Throughout the day, the workshop exemplified ECAT’s commitment to fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Each session underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing the ethical, technical, and regulatory challenges posed by algorithmic systems.