Week in review: Meta’s AI systems ‘disproportionately’ selected certain workers for layoffs

Former Meta employees have alleged that the company used artificial intelligence systems to determine which workers would be laid off. According to the allegations, the AI disproportionately selected workers who had taken protected leave, such as family or medical leave.

The allegations do not specify which Meta layoff rounds are referenced, but the company has conducted significant workforce reductions in recent years. The workers reportedly said the AI's selection process unfairly targeted those who had exercised their legal right to take time off. The company has not publicly commented on the specific claims.

The case adds to growing scrutiny of algorithmic decision-making in human resources. Similar concerns have been raised in other industries where automated systems are used for hiring, promotion, and termination decisions.