The Member Forum on Employment was hosted by BAG WfbM in Berlin, Germany, between 12 and 13 November. The Study Visit gathered EASPD members from across Europe interested in the intersection of disability inclusion, digital transformation, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in working life.

Central to the discussions was the KI Kompass Inklusiv Project, an initiative co-developed by BAG WfbM and funded by the German Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. The project is designed to ensure that people with disabilities are actively involved as equal partners in digital transformation processes, with the long-term goal to establishing a national competence centre for AI supported assistive technologies by 2027.

During the activity, participants explored how AI functions and examined its practical uses, especially in assistive technologies that can support more inclusive work environments. Presentations addressed both the potential and the limitations of these tools, highlighting the need for accessible design, ethical considerations, and a holistic approach to technology development. Privacy, data protection, and meaningful participation of people with disabilities were emphasised throughout.

Additionally, participants had the opportunity to learn about and test first-hand some of the AI tools such as smart glasses and AI-based control via eye/head movement that are being used to support inclusive employment.

The activity also included a visit to Mosaik, a Berlin based social enterprise committed to expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities in working life and across various areas of daily life. The visit provided participants the opportunity to learn about the model of employment in Germany and witness concrete examples of how inclusive practices can be embedded in organisational structures and working spaces can be adapted to individual needs.

The event offered a space to share experiences and build professional networks. It underscored the importance of collective learning and collaboration as technology continues to reshape the labour market.

EASPD wishes to thank BAG WfbM, the KI Kompass Inklusiv partnership and Mosaik for the hospitability.