Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Groups
ICLR 2026 Group Activities The schedule of events for diversity groups will appear here once it's known. Diversity Equity & Inclusion The International Conference on Learning Representations is taking seriously questions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our conference. Our efforts are building on several grassroots efforts from the Women in Machine Learning, Black in AI, Queer in AI and LatinX in AI. ICLR is working to expand these efforts to make the conference as welcoming as possible to all. In addition to hosting diversity-related events, the conference is also making and considering structural changes. These include a Code of Conduct introduced in 2018. We are actively working to make the conference event itself more inclusive, including supporting childcare, nursing mothers, attendees with disabilities, and gender inclusive measures. We have also introduced a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Action Fund. Donations are solely designated to provide accommocations for individuals who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized from the ICLR conference, and to support programs that champion fair, impartial and equal access to opportunities and resources in the ICLR research community. Any DEI Action Fund donations that are unable to be utilized in the current year will be used for these purposes in future years. Financial Assistance Anyone needing financial assistance in order to attend and participate in the annual ICLR conference can apply through our Financial Assistance Application program. WIML {Dis}Ability in AI Please contact us with any assistance needs at the conference. DEI Action Fund The DEI Action Fund is made possible each year with generous donations from some of our sponsors. Women in Machine Learning » Black in AI » Latinx in AI » Queer in AI » Jews in ML » {Dis}Ability in AI » Successful Page Load ICLR uses cookies for essential functions only. We do not sell your personal information. Our Privacy Policy » Accept
Executive Summary
The International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR) has taken significant steps to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its conference. Building on grassroots efforts from various groups, ICLR has introduced a Code of Conduct, expanded DEI initiatives, and established a DEI Action Fund to support marginalized individuals and champion fair access to opportunities. The conference also offers financial assistance, childcare, and nursing support, and has made accommodations for attendees with disabilities. While these efforts demonstrate a commitment to DEI, the conference's ability to sustain these initiatives and ensure equitable representation remains uncertain.
Key Points
- ▸ ICLR has introduced a Code of Conduct to promote a safe and inclusive environment.
- ▸ The conference offers financial assistance, childcare, and nursing support for marginalized individuals.
- ▸ A DEI Action Fund has been established to support programs that champion fair, impartial, and equal access to opportunities.
Merits
Leadership in DEI Efforts
ICLR's commitment to building on grassroots efforts from various groups demonstrates a willingness to engage with and support marginalized communities.
Proactive Measures
The conference's proactive approach to addressing DEI issues, such as the introduction of a Code of Conduct and expanded DEI initiatives, sets a positive precedent for other conferences.
Demerits
Uncertainty Surrounding Sustainability
The conference's ability to sustain its DEI initiatives and ensure equitable representation remains uncertain, as the success of these efforts will depend on ongoing commitment and resources.
Limited Transparency
While the conference has made efforts to promote DEI, the lack of transparency surrounding the DEI Action Fund and financial assistance programs raises questions about accountability and equity.
Expert Commentary
ICLR's efforts to promote DEI are a welcome step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable research community. However, the conference's ability to sustain these initiatives and ensure equitable representation remains uncertain. To build on these efforts, ICLR should prioritize transparency and accountability in its DEI initiatives, and work to ensure that these efforts are sustained over time. Additionally, the conference should consider replicating its DEI initiatives in other academic settings, to promote a broader culture of inclusion and equity in the AI industry.
Recommendations
- ✓ ICLR should prioritize transparency and accountability in its DEI initiatives, including regular reporting and evaluation of their impact.
- ✓ The conference should work to ensure that its DEI initiatives are sustainable over time, through ongoing commitment and resources.
