Around 30 robots gathered outside Poland's Digital Affairs Ministry to highlight the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on employment, calling for rules to address the risks of rapid technological change.

Around 30 robots staged a symbolic demonstration in Poland's capital Warsaw, calling for regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics while drawing attention to the potential impact of automation on the labor market.

The robots marched with flags and slogans before gathering outside the Polish Ministry of Digital Affairs on Monday.

The demonstration was organized by the Democratism initiative, which aims to launch public debate on the effects of artificial intelligence and robotization on employment and society.

Robots call for rules amid AI expansion

The demonstration featured both humanoid robots and four-legged robotic machines. Messages including "Defend jobs", "Time for rules" and "Do not wait, regulate" were broadcast through loudspeakers during the event.

One of the AI-powered humanoid robots, Agibot A3, also responded to questions from journalists. The robot said the machines participating in the demonstration were being used to show that advanced technology has already become part of everyday life.

Organizer Grzegorz Kuliś said the event aimed to draw attention to concerns that humanoid robots and artificial intelligence could eventually replace people working in cognitive professions.

Kuliś stressed that the initiative was not against technological progress.

"We do not want to fight change, robotics or technological development. Our goal is to start a discussion about the consequences of these developments and how to address their negative effects," he said.

He warned that without appropriate measures, rapid technological advances could create serious challenges for the future of work.

Kuliś called for regulations to protect workers and emphasized the importance of informing society about the ongoing technological transformation.

Poland considers stronger AI oversight

Polish Digital Affairs Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski visited the demonstration and met with organizers.

Gawkowski said the integration of uncontrolled AI models into humanoid robots, along with further advances in robotics, could create significant challenges.

He said Poland was working on measures to supervise the artificial intelligence market, including establishing a commission focused on AI development and safety.

The minister also said plans were underway to create regulatory testing environments where companies could evaluate AI solutions before deploying them on a wider scale.

In July, Polish President Karol Nawrocki signed the government's bill on implementing the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act in the country.

The legislation provides for the creation of a national authority responsible for applying and supervising EU AI regulations.

Robots developed by Polish company

The robots used in the demonstration were produced by Delta Robots, a company based in the southern Polish city of Opole that has been developing humanoid and four-legged robots for more than a decade.

The company behind the robots and the organization of the demonstration are linked through organizer Grzegorz Kuliś, who is also involved in the recruitment sector through the Opole-based company Weegree.

Kuliś previously served two terms on the Labour Market Council within Poland's Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy.

The Democratism initiative said it aims to expand its activities internationally in the future.(ILKHA)