At a glance
- Italy has passed a new law regulating workplace use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- The law introduces clear rules for AI tools used in hiring, performance evaluation, and activity monitoring.
- Workers must be informed of the criteria and logic behind automated decisions that affect them.
- Safeguards are included to prevent discrimination and unjust treatment resulting from algorithmic processes.
- Employers are required to consult with trade unions on the use of AI systems in the workplace.
- The legislation aligns with EU ethical standards, promoting transparency, inclusion, and fundamental rights.
On 17 September 2025, the Italian Senate gave final approval to a new bill regulating the use of AI in employment contexts. The legislation sets out a framework for the ethical and transparent use of AI tools in the workplace, particularly in areas such as recruitment, performance assessment, and employee monitoring.
A central feature of the law is its emphasis on algorithmic transparency. Employers using AI systems must ensure that the rules governing these tools are clear, verifiable, and accessible. This includes providing workers with the right to understand the criteria and logic behind any automated decisions that impact their employment status or working conditions.
To further protect workers, the law mandates consultation with trade unions, ensuring that the deployment of AI technologies is balanced against the need to uphold fundamental rights and maintain open dialogue between employers and employee representatives.
This legislation places Italy firmly within the broader European regulatory approach to AI, which prioritises ethical standards, human oversight, and inclusive practices. It sets a precedent for responsible innovation, aiming to harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding against its risks.
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