On 4 December 2025, the Democracy Beyond Algorithm: From Research to Action final cluster event took place in Brussels, bringing together policymakers, researchers, civil society representatives and practitioners to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in strengthening democratic processes.
The event served as a key moment for reflection, exchange and collaboration among EU-funded projects working at the intersection of AI and democracy.
From discussion to real-world impact
The event focused on translating research results into practical solutions and policy-relevant insights. Through keynote speeches, panel discussions and interactive exchanges, participants explored how AI can support more inclusive, transparent and participatory governance.
Particular attention was given to:
A strong message emerged: AI must be developed and deployed in a way that empowers citizens and safeguards fundamental rights.
ITHACA’s role: demonstrating human-centric AI
At the event, ITHACA showcased its contribution to this vision through its AI-supported civic participation platform, designed to facilitate meaningful dialogue between citizens and local authorities.
The platform illustrates how AI can:
By embedding ethical principles directly into the system, ITHACA demonstrates how technology can enhance – not replace – human decision-making.
This reflects the project’s core objective to maximise the positive impact of AI on democratic institutions and civic participation, while empowering vulnerable and underrepresented groups .
Engaging a diverse community
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, enabling dialogue across disciplines and sectors. Researchers shared findings from pilot activities, policymakers discussed regulatory perspectives, and practitioners contributed insights from real-world implementation.
Interactive sessions encouraged exchange of ideas and highlighted the importance of co-creation in developing digital tools for democracy.
Strengthening collaboration across projects
ITHACA participated alongside sister projects, including:
This collaboration reinforces a shared European effort to advance trustworthy AI, civic engagement and digital governance. By aligning approaches and sharing results, these projects increase their collective impact and contribute to a stronger research and policy ecosystem.
A lasting contribution to digital democracy
The final cluster event highlighted that the outcomes of ITHACA extend beyond the project’s lifetime. Its tools, methodologies and policy insights contribute to ongoing European discussions on ethical AI and democratic resilience.
By bridging research, practice and policy, ITHACA helps shape a future where AI supports open, inclusive and transparent governance, ensuring that technology works for citizens and strengthens democratic participation across Europe.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Europe Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
