In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the intersection of law and technology becomes increasingly complex. Today, the AFAR Projects unveils a pioneering initiative poised to redefine our understanding of global legal challenges in the tech domain: the Tech Litigation Database.
Unveiling Global Tech Litigation
A multitude of new technologies are currently being used and tested on vulnerable individuals whose rights are routinely violated as a matter of process. Border authorities are deploying AI to make decisions on asylum applications, while criminal justice authorities increasingly outsource work to automated systems in the investigation and prosecution of crimes.
The Tech Litigation Database aims to raise awareness about these practices, improve transparency around the impact of new technologies on our society, and aid the work of litigators, civil society organisations and researchers as they fight to protect fundamental rights. Containing judgments, decisions, and opinions from national and international courts as well as data protection authorities, the mission of the Database is to spread legal knowledge about how courts around the world have adjudicated that new technologies should and should not be used. With case summaries in English, a user-friendly interface, and easy-to-use advanced search tools, it is set to become an invaluable legal tool in the age of AI.
Navigating the Database
In the rapidly advancing landscape of technology, legal frameworks are constantly challenged to keep pace with innovation. Today, we are thrilled to introduce a groundbreaking initiative – the Tech Litigation Database. This unique resource is the first of its kind, dedicated to exploring global litigation efforts against automated systems. As technology continues to transform industries and societies, legal landscapes must evolve to address complex ethical and regulatory questions.
The Tech Litigation Database serves as a comprehensive repository, documenting cases worldwide that grapple with the contested uses of new technologies. From artificial intelligence to automated decision-making systems, the database sheds light on the legal challenges emerging in our tech-driven world. This initiative aims to not only chronicle ongoing litigation but also to foster a global community that engages with and contributes to the ever-evolving conversation surrounding tech ethics.
Fostering a Global Community
The Database is the product of a collaboration of a network of researchers and national rapporteurs who populate it with landmark cases relating to tech governance. Francesca Palmiotto, the editor of the Database, sees it as a resource with global potential, and one which will continue to grow over the coming years.
“The Tech Litigation Database will support scholars and practitioners in understanding how courts are addressing crucial legal questions on the intersection between technologies and human rights.”
Francesca Palmiotto
By breaking ground on the Tech Litigation Database, we invite legal professionals, tech enthusiasts, and concerned individuals to delve into the intricate intersection of technology and law. Explore the cases, gain insights into emerging challenges, and contribute your expertise to this collaborative endeavor. Together, let’s navigate the legal complexities of the digital era and pave the way for a responsible and ethical technological future. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, unraveling the intricacies of global automated systems challenges.
About the Project
The Tech Litigation Database is a project by Algorithmic Fairness for Asylum Seekers and Refugees (AFAR) funded by the Volkwagen Foundation and based at the Centre for Fundamental Rights at the Hertie School in Berlin.
For further information about AFAR, visit the link below
https://www.hertie-school.org/en/research/research-directory/afar
