MERL Tech DC 2019

Data can be helpful in implementing better quality projects, however it can come with some dark unintended consequences, creating new or increasing vulnerabilities, and doing harm. A panel of technologists and evaluators will discuss the ethical implications of ICT-enabled MERL, and the risks of (and actual) unintended consequences. For example, the burgeoning use of digital surveillance is taking place, but our current global laws do not protect against demographically/community identifiable information. And where organisations and processes are going digital, how often is aid being traded for data? Where data and technology should protect, they can lead to increasing vulnerability. How will we be sure we're changing things for the better instead of reinforcing existing biases and inequalities? The panel will touch on some aspects of digital literacy and rights which can help combat these unintended consequences.

This will be a panel discussion session with dedicated time for Q&A at the end, but we also encourage debate during! Participants will come away from the discussion with greater confidence to tackle some of the most challenging ethical considerations of technology that we face.