Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to greatly enhance citizen participation in political processes, according to a new policy brief released by the Bertelsmann Stiftung. The study, conducted in collaboration with the OECD, examines 50 case studies from 22 countries to showcase how AI can support citizen participation while also highlighting potential risks.
Titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Citizen Participation,” the brief identifies nine areas where AI can be applied in citizen participation, including sense-making, information development, translation, transcription, virtual assistance, facilitation, moderation, simulation, and participation architecture. These applications have already been implemented by governments and civil society actors around the world, with examples such as an AI tool in Cambridge, UK reducing the time needed for public consultation by 50% and an AI-powered platform in Finland enabling over 18,000 citizens to participate in a public consultation.
However, the brief also acknowledges the risks associated with AI, such as biased data and a lack of transparency, which can undermine trust and legitimacy. Additionally, there is a risk of digital exclusion and a lack of expertise in public institutions when it comes to AI implementation.
To ensure responsible and inclusive use of AI in citizen participation, the brief offers recommendations in three key areas: establishing clear guardrails, building capacity for responsible use of AI, and involving citizens in the design and oversight of these systems.
While AI is not meant to replace democratic participation, when used responsibly, it can make participation more accessible, scalable, and responsive. The brief serves as a condensed version of the OECD paper “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Citizen Participation,” which was a collaborative effort between the OECD and the Bertelsmann Stiftung.
The study is available for download at https://www.bertelsmann-stiftung.de/en/publications/publication/did/artificial-intelligence-and-the-future-of-citizen-participation.
For media inquiries, please contact Dr. Stefan Roch of the Bertelsmann Stiftung at +49 5241 81-81126 or stefan.roch@bertelsmann-stiftung.de.
