Can algorithms guess what consumers really want? This has long been a trillion-dollar question in the tech world, with entire industries devoted to predicting what customers might be interested in based on their previous browsing history, from what video they might watch next, to what product they might want to put in their shopping basket.

In very general terms, “recommender systems” are algorithms aimed at suggesting relevant content to internet users. However, algorithms can have unexpected (and even harmful) consequences, from discriminating against marginalised groups to promoting sensationalist or dangerous content, even when this was not the original intent.

How can the EU ensure that content decisions taken by algorithms are helpful and transparent, promoting innovation and economic growth while also protecting consumers and contributing to a civil and healthy digital public sphere?

We put some of YOUR questions on this topic to a panel of experts:

💬 Karen Melchior, MEP (Renew Europe)

💬 Karina Stan, Director of EU Policy & Head of Brussels Office, Developers Alliance

💬 Marco Pancini, Director of Public Policy, YouTube

How can the EU promote helpful online algorithms? Can regulators support innovation and economic growth while also protecting consumers and contributing to a healthy digital public sphere? Let us know your thoughts and comments in the form below and we’ll take them to policymakers and experts for their reactions!

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