Digital Humanism: Towards a People-First Digital Transformation

The PEOPLE-FIRST session aims to promote the development of digital and industrial technologies that are centred around people and uphold ethical principles. This session aligns with the overarching objective of building a strong, inclusive, and democratic society that is well-equipped for the challenges of digital transition. Session Position and Approach: PEOPLE-FIRST aims to embed ethical, inclusive innovation into the technological landscape. By bringing together stakeholders from ICT, STEM, and social sciences, we tackle the diverse societal impacts of digital transformation. This interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that technological advancements are accessible and beneficial, reducing inequalities and promoting inclusivity for all societal groups. At the heart of our initiative is the empowerment of end-users and workers, actively involving them in the development lifecycle of technologies, fostering a participatory design process. This approach not only enhances the relevance and adoption of these technologies but also ensures that they align with real-world needs and ethical standards. Through this engagement, we cultivate a sense of ownership among users, which is crucial for the widespread acceptance and success of technological solutions. Session commitment also extends to fostering social innovation, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, mobility, and public administration, which are vital to the future in the digital domain. The speakers strive to depict frameworks and tools that encourage innovation, ensuring that it results in practical improvements in everyday life while adhering to ethical practices.