Gender Balance in the Era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Case from the Roles of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the Field of Gender Balance

Abstract

Gender balance is crucial for creating equal opportunities and increasing economic growth which leads to sustainable development. With the rising use of fourth industrial technologies across sectors and the adoption of their outputs in decision-making, concerns have emerged about their impact on gender balance. Therefore, the aim of this study is to shed light on the most prominent roles of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of gender balance. To achieve this goal, the study adopted a case study methodology based on reviewing available literature and relevant practical examples.

The results of the study reveal both positive and negative impacts of AI on gender balance.  On the positive side, AI can promote gender balance if its data and designs are bias-free. However, AI can play a negative role in amplifying, reinforcing, and perpetuating the existing biases. Additionally, AI can lead to the formation of new biases arising from complex interactions among overlapping technical elements. Furthermore, AI can be used negatively to extract hidden patterns in the data that favor biases. In conclusion, the study presents a set of recommendations aimed at supporting decision-makers in leveraging AI's positive effects while mitigating its negative impacts on gender balance.