[CURATED CONTENT] This article was published on the Le Monde and is available here (in French - access through paywall).

by Guillaume Chevillon - Professor at ESSEC Business School and Co-Director Metalab for Data, Technology & Society

Nov. 13, 2022

Abstract

The influence of a French ambassador on individual and civil rights of LBGTQI+ people in the world may appear limited at first – though this nomination enables us at least to question the French government's own policies and ambiguities.

Yet, I point out this ambassador can play a significant role, at the European level, for LBGTQI+ digital rights and protection. Indeed the European Commission wants to promote a "Union of Equality" where LBGTQI+ people "should feel free to be who they are – without fear or persecution".

We can build on recent advances in European regulation of online & data privacy (GDPR), the recent Digital Markets & Services Acts, and the upcoming Artificial Intelligence Act.

Online communities are often crucial for the development of individuals within minority groups. This is especially true of LBGTQI+ people who typically grow up in families that do not possess the tools (or willingness) to help them. GLAAD's 2021 Social Media Safety Index points the specific issues these individuals face online.

Social Media have enhanced LBGTQI+ visibility and affirmation, yet this comes with risks. Indeed, while most algorithms do not categorize sexual or gender orientation explicitly (this would be illegal in many countries), they do so implicitly, as a result of the machine learning techniques they use. While this implicit targeting may seem useful in providing recommendations that fit better with one's interests, they have often led to discrimination.

While some algorithmic developments may ultimately improve on this situation, a key element is learning how better to communicate online. We also need to reinforce the visibility (and algorithmic impact) of those that have a positive impact on online communities.