Equitable Robotics for Wellbeing (Eq-RW)

Abstract

Real-world deployment of robotics for wellbeing requires solutions to be tailored to the end users. Most existing systems do not take into consideration the unique needs of those from marginalized and vulnerable communities, such as children, elderly, neurodivergent, disabled, and LGBTQ+ communities. The first workshop on “Equitable Robotics for Wellbeing” ( EqRoW) aims to address this gap by exploring strategies to not only develop more equitable solutions for marginalized and vulnerable communities, but also to enable HRI designers and developers to better understand the diverse needs of the end-users. The theme of HRI 2026, "HRI Empowering Society", informs the overarching theme of this workshop, encouraging discussions on HRI theories, user design methods and studies focused on developing approaches for advancing HRI that empowers society via equitable wellbeing robotics for all.