Discussing a Responsible Future: Experts Convene on 6G and AI Ethics at the RTSI in Tunis
On August 24, 2025, a workshop “Exploring Ethical Challenges in 6G IoT Robotics,” endorsed by one6G took place at the 2025 IEEE 9th Forum on Research and Technologies for Society and Industry Innovation (RTSI) in Tunis, Tunisia. The event gathered leading minds to tackle the complex ethical landscape emerging from the convergence of 6G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics.
With the rapid advancement of these technologies, the workshop’s focus was on addressing critical issues like privacy, transparency, and accountability. Moderated by Mohammad Galal Khafagy of Vodafone, the event fostered a multidisciplinary dialogue among experts from diverse fields, including telecommunications, robotics, and AI ethics. The goal was to identify potential challenges and formulate actionable recommendations for responsible innovation.
Key Takeaways from Expert Speakers
The workshop featured presentations from distinguished speakers, each providing a unique perspective on the ethical challenges and corresponding opportunities.
Ali G. Hessami from Vega Systems, UK, delved into the ethical implications of Agentic AI systems. These systems, which can autonomously pursue goals and adapt to new situations, raise profound questions about autonomous decision-making and algorithmic learning. Hessami’s talk highlighted the importance of establishing robust safety frameworks for these increasingly independent AI systems.
Meng Lu of AEOLIX ITS, Netherlands, examined the ethical challenges within sustainable IoT-based digital infrastructure highlighting the dual impact of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) on sustainability, discussing the lifecycle emissions of digital infrastructure. Lu’s talk prompted attendees to consider the dilemma of balancing supply and demand while exploring innovative solutions and research and development needs.
Paulo Gonçalves from IDMEC, Portugal, explored how ontologies and AI can be used to create ethically aligned robotic systems. His presentation focused on how formal representations of knowledge can help machines understand their environments and social contexts, which is crucial for ethical decision-making. He used an elderly care scenario to illustrate how interdisciplinary approaches can build trustworthy robots.
Mona Ghassemian, Principal Expert at Huawei, painted a picture of a 6G-empowered future for robotics. She highlighted the synergistic relationship between the two fields, emphasizing how 6G’s enabling technologies—such as Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC), High Reliability Low Latency Communication (HRLLC), and Ubiquitous Connectivity—will unlock new possibilities for robots in healthcare, industry, and disaster recovery.
Sami Said from Tunisie Telecom shared an operator’s perspective on ethical challenges in mobile networks. He detailed the evolution of mobile technology and the persistent issues of data privacy, customer cybersecurity, fair competition, and the digital divide. Said emphasized that telecommunication operators must collaborate under standardization and regulatory bodies to develop comprehensive, shared ethical frameworks.
Rounding out the presentations was Nihel Ben Youssef of the University of Tunis El Manar, who provided insight into the Action for Industry Committee. Her talk underscored the committee’s mission to strengthen the relationship between IEEE, academia, and industry, fostering collaboration and promoting engineering contributions in industrial contexts.
The workshop underscored a growing consensus that the technological revolution of 6G, IoT, and robotics must be guided by a proactive and ethical framework, setting a positive precedent for future dialogues aimed at guiding responsible and ethical innovation.
About RTSI
The IEEE Research and Technologies for Society and Industry (RTSI) forum is an annual event that brings together professionals from academia and industry to discuss how technology and engineering can positively impact society. The forum’s core mission is to promote cooperation and partnerships between these two sectors. It also serves as a platform for experts to present cutting-edge research, debate effective research policies with government agencies, and disseminate the latest discoveries. The event is structured to encourage a rich exchange of ideas through various formats, including tutorials, panels, technical sessions, workshops, and exhibitions. The 2025 forum featured several tracks focused on the applications of AI, such as AI for smart cities, energy and transportation systems, healthcare, industry, and cybersecurity. RTSI provides companies with an excellent opportunity to showcase their activities and contribute to the ongoing national and international dialogue on relevant technological advancements.