In today’s digital age, understanding what people need from technology is crucial. Especially in places with lots of different people involved. It’s not always easy for everyone to say what they need, though. Primarily, if they haven’t used similar tools before. This can make it hard to figure out how to make things better. How did we cope with this challenge when collecting input for our planned design of the ITHACA platform?

In today’s digital age, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into civic engagement platforms offers unprecedented opportunities to democratize decision-making processes. However, this transformational potential can only be realized through the meaningful inclusion of diverse voices, particularly those from marginalized or vulnerable communities. Recognizing this imperative, the ITHACA project embarks on a journey to bridge the gap between AI innovation and inclusive civic participation. This article delves into the outcomes of various activities conducted within Work Package 2 (WP2) of the project, shedding light on the intersection of algorithmic risk assessment and human-centered design in the selection process of AI Citizen Juries.

EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, BIG DATA, AND DEMOCRACY In today’s digitally driven world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data play pivotal roles in shaping democratic governance and communication. However, they also pose challenges to democratic values, potentially creating an environment that undermines citizen engagement. Addressing these ethical and socio-technical considerations to ensure responsible […]

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into platforms like ITHACA has ushered in a new era of efficiency and innovation, but not without its complexities, especially in the realm of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). As AI’s intricate data processing and decision-making capabilities unfold, a nuanced approach to GDPR compliance becomes imperative.

The ITHACA initiative is dedicated to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for the betterment of democratic institutions. Our focal point: the creation of an online discussion platform that encapsulates human and social perspectives. This platform, set to be piloted in Romania and Slovakia, aims to amplify democratic processes through inclusivity.

In Thessaloniki, Greece, the ITHACA partners convened for a significant plenary meeting on December 4th – 5th, 2023, hosted by CERTH. This gathering served as a pivotal platform to exchange insights on project progress, achievements, and potential workflow challenges.

In the ever-evolving landscape of governance, understanding the impact of citizen participation and engagement has become a paramount question over the last few decades. Citizens play a pivotal role in shaping a more transparent, responsive, improved, and targeted governance. This article explores the intricate relationship between citizen engagement and governance, highlighting the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as enablers in this transformative process.

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems holds immense potential for societal benefits, economic growth, and boosting EU innovation and competitiveness. However, it’s also recognized that certain AI systems raise concerns, particularly in terms of safety, security, and the protection of fundamental rights.

How can citizens drive transparent and responsive governance?

Project ITHACA is a ground-breaking initiative aimed at improving our understanding of the complexities and controversies surrounding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of technology-enhanced civic participation, to ensure the safe and accessible participation of all citizens in local civic governance initiatives, including those from vulnerable groups often excluded and/or affected by systems in which they have not been taken into account throughout the design, development and implementation phases.

The venue for the 25th Annual International Conference on Digital Government Research (Digital Government Society) next year is now announced. This time, it goes really international and far from Europe – the DGO2024 is taking place in Taipei, Taiwan!