How can artificial intelligence support justice without compromising fundamental rights and fairness? This question will take centre stage at the final policy event of the DATA EQUALITY Project, bringing together legal experts, human rights advocates, AI specialists and policymakers from across Europe.
The high-level conference “Closing the Gap on Algorithmic Discrimination” will take place on 23 September 2026 in Piraeus, bringing together representatives from the European Commission, judicial bodies, research institutions and the legal profession to examine how artificial intelligence, automated legal tools and data-driven technologies are shaping justice systems across Europe.
As public authorities and law enforcement increasingly use data-driven technologies, concerns around algorithmic bias, discrimination and procedural fairness are becoming more pressing. From investigative technologies to automated risk assessments, the use of AI in legal contexts raises important questions about transparency, accountability and the protection of fundamental rights.
The event will present key findings from the DATA EQUALITY Project’s cross-European research and national exercises, alongside practical approaches and tools for identifying and addressing algorithmic bias in legal and judicial contexts.
What to expect at the event
Protecting fundamental rights in the age of AI
Senior legal experts, including representatives from the European Commission, the Court of Appeal of Venice and the defense profession, will discuss how fundamental rights and the principle of equality of arms can be safeguarded when data-driven technologies are used in legal proceedings.
Practical tools for identifying algorithmic bias
Participants will explore innovative tools developed through the DATA EQUALITY Project, including an adaptation of the Implicit Association Test (IAT) to support the identification of bias, as well as approaches for the responsible use and management of AI tools in law enforcement investigations.
From research to policy
The event will conclude with a high-level round table bringing together public prosecutors and AI researchers to discuss challenges such as errors and limitations in Large Language Models (LLMs) used in judicial contexts. The discussion will also explore policy recommendations and opportunities for stronger judicial cooperation across EU Member States.
By bringing together research, legal expertise and policy perspectives, the final DATA EQUALITY event will create space for discussion on how European justice systems can respond to the opportunities and risks presented by AI while keeping fairness, transparency and fundamental rights at the centre.
Register here
Check the agenda here
About DATA EQUALITY
The DATA EQUALITY Project explores the challenges posed by algorithmic discrimination and bias in justice and law enforcement contexts. Through research, national exercises and the development of practical tools, the project aims to contribute to fairer, more transparent and rights-based approaches to the use of data-driven technologies in European justice systems.
