Artificial intelligence (AI) in action: A preliminary review of AI use for democracy support

Artificial intelligence (AI) in action: A preliminary review of AI use for democracy support

This policy paper provides a working definition of AI, provides a preliminary review of how AI is being used to enhance democratic practices worldwide, highlights potential risks and areas of development in the future, and shares recommendations for WFD and democracy support organisations to consider advancing their ‘digital democracy’ agenda.
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Authors

Grahm Tuohy-Gaydos

Theme
Digital technology
Summary

This policy paper provides a working definition of AI for Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) and the broader democracy support sector. 

It then provides a preliminary review of how AI is being used to enhance democratic practices worldwide, focusing on several themes including: 

  • accountability and transparency
  • elections
  • environmental democracy
  • inclusion
  • openness and participation
  • women’s political leadership. 

The paper also highlights potential risks and areas of development in the future. Finally, the paper shares five recommendations for WFD and democracy support organisations to consider advancing their ‘digital democracy’ agenda.

This policy paper also offers additional information regarding AI classification and other resources for identifying good practice and innovative solutions. 

Its findings are relevant to WFD staff members, international development practitioners, civil society organisations, and persons interested in using emerging technologies within governmental settings.

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Briefing
Artificial intelligence (AI) in action: A preliminary review of AI use for democracy support
This policy paper provides a working definition of AI, provides a preliminary review of how AI is being used to enhance democratic practices worldwide, highlights potential risks and areas of development in the future, and shares recommendations for WFD and democracy support organisations to consider advancing their ‘digital democracy’ agenda.
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