The controversial role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in elections, including AI-generated candidates and deepfakes, highlights the technology’s dual edges. While AI disrupts electoral integrity, it also enhances electoral management. The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) has facilitated workshops for Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs) and civil society organizations to tackle AI’s potential and pitfalls.
Despite enthusiasm for AI’s benefits, many EMBs express low AI literacy, with significant gaps in institutional capacity. Ethical concerns have emerged, especially regarding biased AI tools that risk disenfranchising vulnerable populations. Discussions focused on five essential pillars: AI Literacy, Ethics and Human Rights, Content Curation, Regulation, and Effective Electoral Management.
Participants secured consensus on the need for responsible AI adoption, emphasizing human oversight and ethical considerations. Ongoing education, transparency in AI applications, and robust regulatory frameworks are critical for fostering trust and ensuring democracy’s integrity. A cooperative and structured approach can safeguard electoral processes against AI misuse while enhancing efficiency.
Source link
