Artificial Intelligence is transforming how societies communicate, learn, and govern. Yet as it becomes embedded in our institutions, from education to migration, it also raises critical questions about fairness, transparency, and accountability.

The Lisbon Forum 2025, organised by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe, takes place on 28–29 October at the Ismaili Centre in Lisbon under the theme “AI and Global Governance: Rights, Representativity and Readiness.”

Bringing together over 150 participants from Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, this year’s Forum explores how AI can be governed responsibly, ensuring it serves human rights, democracy, and diversity rather than control or exclusion.

EuroMeSCo’s Contribution: Virtual Borders

As part of this year’s programme, the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed) contributes with the workshop “Virtual Borders: Human Rights Challenges in AI-Based Migration Management”, building on the work of the EuroMed Young Researchers Forum 2025.

The session will explore how AI and digital technologies are reshaping migration governance, from asylum systems to border control, and the ethical, legal, and humanitarian challenges that come with it.

Three young EuroMeSCo researchers from both shores of the Mediterranean will share their insights:

• ⚖️ Konstantina Liontou, on AI and fairness in EU asylum procedures

• 🧭 Nabil Ferdaoussi, on repurposing border technologies to trace missing migrants

• 💻 Martina Canesi, on tackling technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) against migrant women

Moderated by Jusaima Moaid-azm Peregrina (University of Granada), the workshop will foster dialogue between youth experts, policymakers, and civil society on how to make AI governance more human-centred and rights-based.

From Reflection to Action

By connecting young researchers with decision-makers, EuroMeSCo aims to bridge research and policy while amplifying Mediterranean perspectives in global AI debates.

Together, the Lisbon Forum 2025 and the Virtual Borders workshop highlight a shared goal: to ensure that technology serves people, protects rights, and strengthens solidarity across borders. 🌍