Germany's SPD Proposes Sweeping Reforms to Combat AI Discrimination

From hiring algorithms to deepfake abuse, AI is deepening inequality. Now, Germany's SPD is fighting back with bold legal reforms to hold tech accountable.

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2026 February 3 . 7:48 PM

1 min read

The image shows a map of Europe with the gender equality index 2017 work overview. The map is... — The image shows a map of Europe with the gender equality index 2017 work overview. The map is divided into different colors, each representing a different gender, and the text on the left side of the image provides further information about the index.

SPD Women Demand More Protection Against Discrimination by AI - Germany's SPD Proposes Sweeping Reforms to Combat AI Discrimination

Germany's SPD Women's Working Group has pushed for major reforms to the country's anti-discrimination laws. Their proposals aim to tackle bias in artificial intelligence and extend protections for vulnerable groups. The changes would update the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) to address modern challenges like algorithmic discrimination.

The group wants the AGG to cover AI-driven decisions that impact personal rights. This includes future technologies that could reinforce bias in areas such as hiring, healthcare, and online platforms. Research shows AI systems often discriminate, with facial recognition error rates as high as 47% for dark-skinned women—far worse than for light-skinned men.

They also propose adding 'family caregiving' and 'chronic illnesses' as new protected categories under the law. Another key change would extend the timeframe for challenging discrimination claims. Additionally, the reforms would allow anti-discrimination organisations to take legal action on behalf of affected individuals.

Current evidence highlights serious risks from AI bias. Women face issues like deepfake exploitation, unfair job application rejections, and incorrect medical diagnoses due to flawed algorithms. The EU already classifies AI-based HR systems as high-risk, underlining the need for stricter oversight.

If adopted, the reforms would strengthen legal protections against AI-driven discrimination. The proposals also seek to give victims more time to challenge unfair treatment and empower advocacy groups to act. The changes reflect growing concerns about bias in technology and its real-world impact on marginalised groups.