“Generative artificial intelligence is transforming the way politics is done”

2023-09-29 08:00:05

Since its potential applications are largely unknown – and seem virtually limitless – it would be extremely difficult to predict the extent to which artificial intelligence (AI) might affect democracy. If restricted artificial intelligence tools, intended for specific tasks, such as maintaining electoral lists, are already used in different countries, the effects of generative artificial intelligence are more difficult to envisage.

Also read the editorial in “Le Monde”: Artificial intelligence: make no mistake about regulation

This technology is not just a new application, like a social media platform; rather, it is a constitutive technology, which in this respect recalls the emergence of the Internet. It will influence democracy, whether directly, through the transformation of electoral and governance mechanisms, or indirectly, since it threatens the very foundations of information ecosystems, public trust and opinion.

As for its direct consequences, generative AI transforms the way politics is done by allowing a more relevant and detailed understanding of the potential results of a decision. So organizations like Climate Change AI are already using this technology to understand how to design roads, electricity supply networks or water pipes taking into account the worsening and multiplication of extreme climatic events. Law enforcement services use it for surveillance and preventive policing. More recently, lawyers and judges have started to use generative AI, for example ChatGPT, to assist them in writing their conclusions for some, or even their decisions or judgments for others.

Algorithms and biases

Meanwhile, concern is growing about the interaction of generative AI on elections. In 2024, elections will be held in at least 45 countries, including decisive votes in the United States and the European Union.

Yes theRestricted AI already helping to streamline election administration, generative AI could introduce new biases and uncertainties. The American electoral system, which is very decentralized, includes for example 10,000 competent administrative authoritieseach state maintains its own lists, which must be constantly updated, as voters move, die, or in one way or another lose their right to vote.

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