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Overview of our Societal Impact Activities

Scientists and technologists, first and foremost as human beings, must consider the social impact of their work—a principle rooted in Hippocrates' Oath, which became the reference code of ethics for physicians.

Informatics scientists now face a similar challenge. While Informatics-driven automation offers vast progress, it can also impact quality of life and fundamental rights of individuals and society. Often, the consequences are only fully recognized when things go wrong, with technical issues or software bugs causing significant financial loss and even loss of human lives. Experience shows that, as the power and autonomy of these systems grow, so does the potential severity of incidents.

As a scientific community, we must increasingly embrace the social responsibility of Informatics, further integrating it into both teaching and research.

 

Informatics Europe has given significant emphasis to ethical development, implementation, and monitoring of informatics research and education since its establishment, with growing attention to the various aspects of diversity and inclusion, as well as green ICT. Moreover, Informatics Transforming Society and Social Responsibility of Informatics have been the main themes of our annual conference (ECSS) in 2011 and 2019 respectively. 

Explore the following pages to learn more about our ongoing initiatives and working groups aimed at fostering positive societal changes through Informatics. 

Ethics

Addressing the ethical implications of technological development. Fostering awareness and responsibility in our community.

Green ICT

Advocating for the development of efficient, eco-friendly ICT infrastructure while leveraging technology to enhance sustainability across society.

Digital Humanism

A collaborative initiative to explore the evolving relationship between humans and machines, Informatics and society.

Diversity and Inclusion

Encouraging and supporting practices of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of Informatics, through activities that range from EU-funded projects to the IE Minerva Informatics Equality Award.