AI's Dual Role in Modern Elections: Tool for Engagement and Threat to Integrity
While AI enhances voter outreach and inclusivity, its misuse through deepfakes poses significant challenges to democratic processes.
- AI technologies were extensively used in India's recent election for voter engagement, including deepfake videos of deceased politicians.
- Despite AI's positive applications, deepfakes have been used to spread misinformation, as seen in elections in India, the UK, and the US.
- Responsible AI technologies are being developed to detect and filter out deepfakes, but challenges remain in their implementation and effectiveness.
- Tech companies and governments are working on regulations and technological solutions to combat the spread of AI-generated misinformation.
- The balance between leveraging AI for democratic engagement and mitigating its risks is crucial for future elections worldwide.