Democracy and AI
Understanding the impact of generative AI on democratic systems
This is a joint project of six Una Europa partners: Leiden University, University College Dublin, Free University of Berlin, University of Edinburgh, KU Leuven, and University of Zurich. Visit the project website for more information: https://democracy-and-ai.com/
As generative artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly reshapes political communication and governance, there is an urgent need to understand its implications for democratic systems. While AI technologies have the potential to strengthen democracy (by improving access to information, enhancing participation, and supporting transparency and accountability) they also pose significant risks. These include the spread of disinformation, algorithmic bias, and the manipulation of electoral processes.
Addressing this dual challenge, this Europa project brings together a multidisciplinary network from six partner institutions to develop a pioneering framework for assessing both the democratic risks and opportunities associated with AI. The project involves 26 researchers from Leiden University, University College Dublin, Free University of Berlin, University of Edinburgh, KU Leuven, and University of Zurich.
Integrating expertise from political science, communication studies, and computer science, the project will examine the impact of AI on democratic values, electoral integrity, and governance, in close consultation with key societal stakeholders.
Core activities include an interdisciplinary research workshop, a grant development workshop, and a virtual training programme on AI for research. Together, these initiatives will strengthen collaboration, build research capacity, and position Una Europa to lead future international funding initiatives in this critical area.
By co-developing innovative analytical tools and conceptual frameworks, the project aims to advance the state of the art while contributing to the protection and resilience of democratic systems in the age of AI.
The project is funded by the Una Europa Seed Funding Scheme 2025.