Call for Papers

Digital Empowerment Foundation and Centre for Development Policy and Practice

6th Digital Citizenship Summit

Theme: Algorithm | AI | Accountability

Date: 15 and 16 November 2024

Venue: T-HUB, Hyderabad, Telangana   

Call for Papers

Authors of only selected paper will be notified of the acceptance status of their draft paper submissions by 31th September 2024. Accepted submissions will be presented at the 6th Digital Citizen Summit.

The Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) and the Centre for Development Policy & Practice (CDPP) were proud hosts of the 5th Digital Citizen Summit in 2023, a groundbreaking event celebrating the fusion of technology and social innovation. This flagship event attracted a diverse spectrum of participants, including scholars, academics, practitioners, civil society organisations, and government representatives deeply engaged in technology, digital citizenship, and social innovation.

And now, the Digital Citizen Summit returns in 2024, promising yet another enlightening experience with its captivating theme of “Algorithms, AI & Accountability.” This year’s summit beckons researchers, scholars, and thought leaders to contribute their insights and perspectives through paper submissions. The sub-themes set the stage for insightful discussions, ranging from Algorithmic Bias and Discrimination to Ethical AI Development, Data Privacy and Security, Algorithms of Platform Companies & their impact on Gig Workers, and AI Regulation & Implementation in an array of services.

We cordially invite you to submit your research papers for consideration at the 6th Digital Citizen Summit, 2024. This presents a unique opportunity to become part of an intellectual ecosystem grappling with matters of paramount relevance in today’s digital landscape. Following are the themes broadly under which submissions are to be made.

Algorithmic Bias and Discrimination

This sub-theme delves into the pervasive issue of bias embedded within algorithms and the consequent discriminatory outcomes they produce. Discussions under this theme examine the sources and manifestations of bias in algorithmic decision-making across various domains, from employment and criminal justice to healthcare and finance. Explore strategies and mechanisms to mitigate bias and ensure fairness and equity in algorithmic systems, aiming to foster inclusivity and social justice in the digital age.

Ethical AI Development

Ethical AI Development focuses on the moral considerations and principles guiding the design, development, and deployment of artificial intelligence systems. This sub-theme addresses questions surrounding the ethical implications of AI technologies, including issues of transparency, accountability, privacy, and human autonomy. Engaging in discussions on ethical frameworks, guidelines, and best practices to ensure that AI systems align with societal values and respect human dignity, fostering trust and responsible innovation in AI-driven solutions.

Data Privacy and Security

Data Privacy and Security explores the challenges and strategies for safeguarding individuals’ personal information in an increasingly data-driven world. This sub-theme examines the threats posed by data breaches, unauthorised access, and misuse of personal data, highlighting the importance of robust privacy policies and cybersecurity measures. Discussions delve into data anonymisation, encryption, consent management, and regulatory compliance, aiming to protect individuals’ privacy rights and build trust in digital ecosystems.

Algorithms of Platform Companies & its Impact on Gig Workers

This sub-theme focuses on the algorithms employed by platform companies and their implications for gig workers in the digital economy. Discussions explore how algorithmic systems shape labour dynamics, including worker classification, task allocation, and compensation structures, within gig platforms such as ride-hailing, delivery, and freelance marketplaces. The sub-theme analyses the socioeconomic impacts of algorithmic management on gig workers, addressing concerns related to job security, income stability, and worker rights and exploring avenues for promoting fair labour practices and worker empowerment in platform-mediated work environments.

AI Regulation and Implementation

AI Regulation and Implementation centers on the development and enforcement of regulatory frameworks governing the use of artificial intelligence technologies. This sub-theme examines the legal, ethical, and practical challenges associated with regulating AI applications across diverse sectors, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and public services. Discuss policy approaches, regulatory mechanisms, and international cooperation efforts aimed at ensuring the responsible and accountable deployment of AI, balancing innovation with societal risks and benefits.

Reflecting on the success of its predecessor, the 5th Digital Citizen Summit 2023 was a three-day extravaganza designed to satiate the intellectual appetites of its attendees. It offered a stimulating platform for the exchange of insights, ideas, and experiences concerning technology’s profound impact on society. Participants were treated to many engaging activities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, paper presentations, immersive workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities.

Renowned scholars and experts graced the summit with their presence, sharing profound insights and innovative ideas, all centred around the overarching theme of “Commoning the Internet for a Vibrant Democracy.” The 5th summit exemplified the spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to harnessing technology for the greater good.

Submission Guidelines

Submissions must be original work not previously published or under consideration for publication elsewhere. Authors are responsible for ensuring the originality of their submissions and should cite any sources appropriately.

Format: Submissions should be in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) format, following the American Psychological Association (APA) style guidelines for citations and references.

Type of Text-Length: Authors may submit research papers, reviews, or reports relevant to the summit’s themes.

Each submission should specify its type and adhere to the following word limits:

Content: Submissions should address one or more of the summit’s sub-themes, including Algorithmic Bias and Discrimination, Ethical AI Development, Data Privacy and Security, Algorithms of Platform Companies & their impact on Gig Workers, and AI Regulation and Implementation.

Review Process: All submissions will undergo peer review by experts in the field. Authors can expect feedback and suggestions for revisions if necessary.

Authors should email their papers to info@cdpp.co.in

Please include “Paper Submission for 6th Digital Citizen Summit” in the subject line. The file name must be ‘PaperTitle_AuthorName.’

Authors will be notified of the acceptance status of their submissions by 31st September 2024. Accepted submissions will be presented at the 6th Digital Citizen Summit. Only selected abstracts will be notified by 31st of July after the authors should email their abstracts to info@cdpp.co.in

Subject to further review and revision, selected papers will be considered for publication in the Journal of Development Policy and Practice’s regular special issue on Technology and Society.