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NLJ this week: The relentless creep of algorithmic discrimination

03 May 2024
Issue: 8069 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Artificial intelligence , Technology , Bias , Human rights
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Algorithmic discrimination is on the rise and it’s a serious problem, writes Dr Sebastian Smart in this week’s NLJ. It’s a fascinating insight into a global phenomenon

Smart argues that we need to work towards cross-jurisdictional solutions such as universally accepted definitions and frameworks.

Smart, a research fellow at Anglia Ruskin University’s Centre for Access to Justice and Inclusion, explains how algorithmic discrimination can occur, what damage it can cause, and how different jurisdictions across the world have widely differing approaches to regulation.

He notes that the ‘Post Office Horizon scandal has highlighted the extensive damage that can occur when technology is misapplied’. Yet ‘cases of bias and disparity arising from algorithmic decision-making’ are increasingly frequent. Smart writes: ‘These processes often rely on complex algorithms found in systems that impact aspects of our lives, ranging from social media algorithms to credit scoring methods, job recruitment procedures and even law enforcement practices.’

MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

Kate Gaskell, CEO of Flex Legal, reflects on chasing her childhood dreams underscores the importance of welcoming those from all backgrounds into the profession

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dispute resolution team welcomes associate in London

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Special education needs and mental capacity expert joins as partner

NEWS
Overcrowded prisons, mental health hospitals and immigration centres are failing to meet international and domestic human rights standards, the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) has warned
Two speedier and more streamlined qualification routes have been launched for probate and conveyancing professionals
Workplace stress was a contributing factor in almost one in eight cases before the employment tribunal last year, indicating its endemic grip on the UK workplace
In NLJ this week, Ian Smith, emeritus professor at UEA, explores major developments in employment law from the Supreme Court and appellate courts
Writing in NLJ this week, Kamran Rehman and Harriet Campbell of Penningtons Manches Cooper examine Operafund Eco-Invest SICAV plc v Spain, where the Commercial Court held that ICSID and Energy Charter Treaty awards cannot be assigned
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