Algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) systems are being deployed on an ever-growing scale across all sectors, including employment, the delivery of public and private goods and services, public security policies, and, for example, the fight against fraud. While they may represent significant progress, these systems also pose major risks to rights and freedoms, particularly with regard to discrimination.

In response, legal standards for artificial intelligence systems have recently been adopted by both the Council of Europe and the European Union. In the context of implementing these frameworks, it is essential that all relevant stakeholders fully understand the impact of these technologies on human rights.

The Defender of Rights in France is responsible for combating all forms of discrimination, including those resulting from algorithmic systems. The institution, which has taken a public stance on these issues on several occasions and has engaged in extensive dialogue with various French and European partners, has been designated as the “authority for the protection of fundamental rights” for the application in France of the EU Artificial Intelligence Regulation.

Within this framework, the Defender of Rights, in collaboration with the Council of Europe, is organising the 5th edition of a training programme on AI and discriminations, mainly delivered online.

This training is intended for staff of independent authorities (Defender of Rights, CNIL, CNCDH, ARCOM, ACPR, etc.), as well as for professionals working on these issues within ministries, local authorities, and civil society organisations. The 5th edition of the course gathers some 200 participants. 

The programme introduces key concepts, examples of how these systems are used across different sectors, and the applicable French and European regulations related to personal data, non-discrimination, and AI systems. It also addresses the unresolved challenges in tackling algorithmic discrimination.
Its aim is to help participants understand the mechanisms through which discrimination can occur in these systems.

The training consists of four online modules, available from January to April 2026:

• Module 1 – Technology and Equality: Fundamental Concepts

• Module 2 – Combating Discrimination in Algorithms and AI Systems

• Module 3 – Algorithmic Discrimination: Case Studies in Several Sectors

• Module 4 – Implementing New AI Regulation

In addition, two interactive seminars will be organised. These sessions will provide an opportunity to hear from AI experts, ask questions, and collectively reflect on various questions from the training programme.