Empowering Change: Unveiling the Synergy of Feminist Perspectives and AI Tools in addressing Domestic Violence

Abstract

Gender-based violence remains a widespread issue in our societies. Women who are victims-survivors often encounter significant barriers when seeking support services, and frontline responders frequently lack the necessary skills and capacities to provide an adequate response. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI), particularly through the use and development of chatbots, has emerged as a potential solution to enhance and simplify access to these services for women. This is where the European project IMPROVE (Improving Access to Services for Victims of Domestic Violence by Accelerating Change in Frontline Responder Organisations) comes into play. Using a qualitative methodology, this study captures the voices of victim-survivors, exploring their views on the use of AI tools in the context of domestic violence, while also comparing these perspectives with the general societal perception of chatbots as reflected in media coverage.