Summit for Democracy: opportunities and risks of AI for democracy

Democracies around the world have come under increasing pressure over the past two decades. A large majority of the world's population lives in non-democratic states. Against this backdrop, around 300 representatives from governments, international organisations, academia and civil society will meet at the third Summit for Democracy in Seoul from 18 to 20 March. The summit will serve as a forum for dialogue on policy strategies and solutions, with a particular focus on new technologies, in order to promote democracy for future generations. Mr Geissbühler, head of the FDFA's Peace and Human Rights Division (PHRD), delivered a statement at the ministerial meeting which took place on Monday as part of the summit. President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd will also address the summit in a video message.

"While new technologies present risks, they also create opportunities, especially for democracy. Young people have a key role to play in this," said Geissbühler. Technological advances offer opportunities to streamline electoral processes, improve access to information and increase the efficiency of public authorities. However, rapid developments in AI also have the potential to undermine democratic decision-making processes through disinformation and repression. "We must ensure that technology continues to serve citizens and does not become an instrument of oppression or manipulation," emphasised Geissbühler in his statement. This is particularly important to ensure the engagement of young people, who are very active in the digital space, in the political process. At the same time, it is important that the fight against disinformation is not used as a pretext to place undue restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms. To minimise the negative impact of artificial intelligence, Switzerland contributed its expertise to the Council of Europe's negotiations on the Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law, which were successfully concluded last week.

The Federal Council defined 'democracy and governance' as one of the thematic priorities of the Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–27. Growing autocratic tendencies in many countries around the world present a challenge to Swiss foreign policy. The aim of the strategy is to strengthen democratic values and freedoms, promote dialogue and cooperation with other democracies and bolster the resilience of democracies that are facing increasing pressure.

Further information:

Article, "A democracy is never guaranteed forever"
Foreign Policy Strategy 2024-2027

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