Microsoft and OpenAI, training in Tirana on the use of Artificial Intelligence in elections

2024-12-03 16:22:00, Aktualitet CNA

Microsoft and OpenAI, training in Tirana on the use of Artificial Intelligence

The "Artificial Intelligence in Elections" training organized by IDEA International and financed by Microsoft and OpenAI, with the support of the Central Election Commission of Albania, started today.

The training will take place over three days and will be attended by officials of the electoral bodies and civil society representatives from Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Armenia, Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The aim of this training program is to equip election officials and civil society organizations with an in-depth understanding of AI, highlighting its ethical and human rights implications in electoral administration.

The program aims to explore both the benefits and risks of AI in electoral processes, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable and marginalized groups.

Microsoft and OpenAI, training in Tirana on the use of Artificial Intelligence

State Commissioner of Elections, Mr. Ilirjan Celibashi called the activity unique in terms of the topic it deals with, the time when it takes place, the place where it takes place and even more because of the fact that OpenAI and Microsoft themselves are supporters of this activity.

The commissioner underlined the fact that despite the fact that the use of Artificial Intelligence in elections is still in its early stages, the possibilities that AI offers in electoral management are great.

“AI can help combat the growing problem of disinformation during elections. By analyzing online content, AI algorithms can quickly identify and flag false information, ensuring voters receive reliable information.

Microsoft and OpenAI, training in Tirana on the use of Artificial Intelligence

Also, AI-powered chatbots can answer voter questions accurately and quickly, helping citizens in the election process. Another important application of AI is the analysis of election data. AI on large volumes of data can identify potential irregularities. These uses of AI, but not only, strengthen transparency and increase public confidence in election results," he said.

During the 3 days of training, participants will learn how to effectively implement AI solutions within the framework of democratic governance, ensuring that technology strengthens and does not undermine the integrity of electoral management. Election officials will be able to gain knowledge on five key topics: AI Basics, AI Ethics and Human Rights, AI and Elections.

Microsoft and OpenAI, training in Tirana on the use of Artificial Intelligence

While artificial intelligence (AI) has undergone exponential growth in many sectors, its role and application in electoral administration remains largely unexplored. AI technologies have significant untapped potential to improve the efficiency, fairness, inclusiveness and credibility of electoral processes. To ensure the potential of AI for the good of democracy, International IDEA has published a report on "Artificial Intelligence for Electoral Management", which analyzes the associated risks and presents possible strategies for alleviating the potentially negative impacts of the technologies.

Based on this report, International IDEA is now developing a structured training and dialogue program for the education of electoral actors in five regions - Asia-Pacific, Western Balkans, Latin America and Africa.