The multiple crises that the world is facing have diverse and unequal impacts on society at large. Uncertainty reigns as these crises continuously evolve in many different directions. The fast-paced change that we are experiencing challenges societal structures and triggers social unrest. Foresight... Find out more

Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the core of the digital revolution we are currently undergoing. Conceived in research labs, it has now established itself in almost all sectors and has become an integral part of our economy and lives. Understanding artificial intelligence is a complex task, as it... Find out more

Policy recommendations The draft Directive on improving working conditions in platform work (Platform Work Directive) clarifies the employment status and working conditions of platform workers. Importantly, it also focuses on regulating algorithmic management. While a step in the right direction... Find out more

Policy issues AI systems in the context of employment are intrusive and have negative impacts on workers. The proposed Regulation fails to address the specificity of AI uses in employment, including platform work. An ad hoc directive on AI in employment is therefore necessary. As a consequence of... Find out more

Among the many disruptive new technologies that have emerged recently, blockchain is the one that has the most potential to profoundly revolutionise society and the labour market. For blockchain to be socially acceptable, however, accountability and transparency in the governance of its architecture... Find out more

Superpowers, states and companies around the world are all pushing hard to win the AI race. Artificial intelligence (AI) is of strategic importance for the EU, with the European Commission recently stating that ‘artificial intelligence with a purpose can make Europe a world leader’. For this to... Find out more

Why do foresight? To look at reality from different perspectives. Like any organisation, trade unions have to navigate a complex and interconnected environment where they face constant and evolving social, economic, environmental and technological realities. Foresight can help trade unions by... Find out more

‘Whoever becomes the ruler of AI will become the ruler of the world,’ said Vladimir Putin in September 2017. The USA, Russia and China are all adamant that artificial intelligence (AI) will be the key technology underpinning their national power in the future. What place, then, is there for Europe... Find out more

This paper discusses the European Parliament’s Resolution of 16 February 2017 with recommendations to the Commission on Civil Law Rules on Robotics (European Parliament 2017). It provides a brief summary of the content of the Resolution and looks at its basic principles and raison d’être. It also... Find out more

This Policy Brief provides information about the recently established ‘EU Observatory for Nanomaterials’, how it is being developed, its limitations and why it is not an ideal option. It suggests a different monitoring scenario, based on rules which would ensure transparency, improve the ability of... Find out more