BRUSSELS, June 20 (Chatnewstv.com) — The European Union Council on Wednesday called for targeted efforts to advance gender equality in the digital era, warning of the growing risks posed by artificial intelligence and online violence against women and girls.
In formal conclusions adopted by member states, the Council outlined a range of measures aimed at closing persistent gender gaps, from tackling algorithmic bias in AI systems to fighting technology-facilitated abuse.
“Advancing on gender equality, particularly within the context of a modern digital society, has been a key priority for the Polish presidency,” said Katarzyna Kotula, Poland’s Minister for Equality. “Technology-facilitated gender-based inequalities must be tackled. We must take measures specifically addressing the risks and dangers posed by AI and the digital world, as well as seize the opportunities.”
The Council called on member states to adopt a dual approach to equality by integrating gender perspectives into all policies while also supporting targeted measures. It also urged governments to strengthen national gender equality bodies through clear mandates and sufficient resources.
A key concern raised was the role of AI in reinforcing discrimination. The Council warned that biased data and poorly designed algorithms can produce discriminatory outcomes and called for strong human oversight, clear non-discrimination rules, and high-quality representative datasets.
“At the same time, AI can help detect and reduce bias when properly implemented,” the conclusions said. “It is essential to harness its positive potential while guarding against its harms.”
The Council also emphasized the rise of online misogyny and the widening gender divide among youth in perceptions of equality. It recommended new research into masculinist and misogynistic online networks and urged the involvement of men and boys in addressing root causes of gender inequality.
“Online violence disproportionately affects women in positions of power, particularly young women and those from marginalized communities,” the Council said. “This limits their participation in public life and undermines democracy.”
Finally, the Council called on the European Commission to maintain gender equality as a core priority through 2029 and to ensure that the Digital Services Act, AI Act, and future policies reflect gender considerations. It encouraged cooperation between internet platforms and policymakers to protect women and girls online and recommended increased attention to gender issues in the EU’s digital and external strategies.
Gender equality remains enshrined in the EU’s legal foundations, including the Treaties and Charter of Fundamental Rights. The Council’s conclusions build on recent legislation such as the AI Act and the Digital Services Act, as well as the European Commission’s 2025 Roadmap for Women’s Rights.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
