EMBs from the Western Balkans, local and international experts discuss the impact of Artificial Intelligence on Electoral Processes

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) and the Rule of Law Centre of Finland (RoL Centre), in partnership with the Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina, recently hosted a regional discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Elections.  

Meeting in Sarajevo, Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from the Western Balkans, alongside esteemed academics, and representatives from civil society organizations exchanged views on how to utilize Artificial Intelligence to boost the integrity and public trust in elections.  

The discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges stemming from the imminent spreading of AI tools in election campaigns and election management. The event explored the definition of AI, risks of disinformation in election campaigns, considerations on personal data protection, human rights and democracy, but also how AI can help EMBs to better implement electoral processes. This includes experience with AI in political finance oversight, such as that of the UK, and the use at different stages of election management, such as updates in voter lists. 

Recognizing the trend in increased use of AI tools, discussants delved into implications for EMB capacities and human resources, regulation and the role of the EU as a standard setter in the field.  

The event was organized in the framework of the "Integrity and Trust in Albanian Elections: Fostering Political Finance Transparency and the Safe Use of Information and Communication Technologies", co-implemented by International IDEA and the Rule of Law Centre of Finland.