Freedom of Expression in the Age of Smart Algorithms

In May 2025, UNESCO and UNDP presented an analytical report titled "Freedom of Expression, Artificial Intelligence, and Elections." The report, based on data from the 2024 Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), examines the impact of AI on electoral processes worldwide.

The report highlights key challenges that AI poses to freedom of speech, digital rights, and citizens' personal data while proposing possible regulatory solutions.

The document provides an in-depth analysis of how AI transforms the media landscape, influences political campaigns, and shapes voter perceptions.

UNESCO and UNDP emphasize that freedom of expression is a fundamental right in democratic elections. However, the rapid advancement of technology introduces new risks related to disinformation, manipulation, and digital rights violations.

The report identifies several major threats associated with AI in electoral processes:

• Disinformation and Fake News – AI algorithms enable the creation of highly convincing yet false content that can undermine trust in elections.

• Manipulation of Public Opinion – Personalized algorithms can be used for covert influence on voters’ political preferences.

• Microtargeting Risks – Political campaigns increasingly analyze user data for precise outreach, raising concerns about electoral transparency.

• Gender Inequality and Discrimination – Women and marginalized groups are more often targeted by digital attacks involving AI-driven manipulation.

• Technological Power Concentration – AI is heavily utilized by major digital platforms, creating new forms of information control.

• Personal Data Security – Large-scale user data collection for election analytics poses risks to privacy rights.

UNESCO and UNDP stress the need for AI regulation and suggest several solutions:

• Ethical Standards – Ensuring AI transparency and preventing manipulation.

• Personal Data Protection – Establishing international norms for data processing oversight.

• Combatting Disinformation – Developing mechanisms to counter fake news and digital manipulations.

• Media Literacy Advancement – Educating citizens on risks and methods for critically analyzing information.

• Global Cooperation – Promoting international initiatives like the UN Digital Pact for coordinated AI regulation approaches.

• Inclusivity – Ensuring equal digital rights for all population groups, especially vulnerable ones.

The report underscores AI's significant influence on freedom of expression and digital rights in election periods.

To mitigate negative consequences, international cooperation, effective regulation, and responsible practices by tech companies are essential.

(text translation is done automatically)