The Nordic Conference on Law and Information Technology gathers Nordic researchers at the University of Lapland to discuss the role of artificial intelligence and biotechnology applications, as well as legal and ethical aspects in moving towards a responsible, inclusive and sustainable society.

The use of artificial intelligence in a responsible and ethically acceptable manner is a current topic both in research and for individuals and business life. Artificial intelligence offers business a significant benefit potential, but the downside is the risks associated with it. These risks are partially controlled by complying with regulations. The problem, however, is that innovations and functions based on artificial intelligence are developing so quickly that legislation cannot keep up with the pace.

The sessions and discussions of the conference focus on various transitions – fair, sustainable, green and digital transitions – as well as ethical and regulatory aspects regarding the use of technologies to achieve the goals set by the EU. The sessions will discuss, among other things

– What are the legal and ethical risks associated with the digitalization of the processes needed to achieve a sustainable, resilient and inclusive society?
– How can the 'right' balance between providing the needed incentives for developing the necessary innovations to enable the transition and protecting ethics and human rights be achieved through legislation?
– What role do legal theories play in creating a legal framework that supports green, resilient and inclusive development?

In the light of these themes, key policy programmes and regulations are also discussed, such as the digital compass related to digitalisation development, the green deal programme, the data protection regulation and EU's artificial intelligence regulation.

The speakers at the conference will include researchers in the field as well as representatives of business life and innovation work.

Chairman of the Board Pekka Ala-Pietilä (Huhtamäki Ltd) will give a presentation on artificial intelligence and society as an interplay of innovation and regulation, and Senior Advisor Reijo Aarnio (Sitra) will talk about the fair data economy.

Various academics will be heard, too. For example, Professors Rosa Ballardini and Rob van den Hoven van Genderen (University of Lapland) will discuss on legal incentives for innovations in the emotional artificial intelligence, and Postdoctoral Researcher Beata Mäihäniemi (University of Helsinki) on the interface between digital platforms and sustainability from the perspectives of competition law and data governance regulation.

Everyone interested in the topic is welcome to the conference, especially researchers, students, political decision-makers and business representatives who work with artificial intelligence and its regulation. Participation in the conference is free of charge, but pre-registration is required via the conference website by October 27.

Conference website: further information and registration by October 27:

Nordic Conference on Law and Information Technology 2023

Further information:

Rosa Ballardini, firstname.lastname (at) ulapland.fi
Rob van den Hoven van Genderen, rob.vandenhovenvangenderen (at) switchlegal.nl