AI-driven public consultation platforms

Transforming civic engagement in local governments

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in local governments has gained increasing attention as a means to enhance civic engagement and streamline public participation. This study examines how local governments utilize AI-powered platforms for civic engagement, exploring the perspectives of public servants and developers on the implementation of AI, its benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations. With a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with developers, product designers, public servants, and decision-makers involved in developing and using the AI-powered platform for civic engagement initiatives. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes related to AI functionalities, user experiences, and governance challenges. The preliminary results reveal that four distinct types of AI applications have been employed, including AI-powered optical character recognition (OCR), AI-based content moderation, AI sensemaking, and AI-driven translation. These AI tools facilitate efficiency in data processing, enhance accessibility, and support decision-making. However, concerns regarding AI  transparency, data privacy, and public trust remain significantly challenging. Additionally, public servants emphasized the need for AI literacy training and the development of ethical guidelines to ensure the responsible use of AI in local governance. This study contributes to the growing discourse on AI in civic engagement by offering insights into the practical and ethical dimensions of AI adoption in local governments. The findings underscore the need for policy frameworks, digital inclusivity measures, and ongoing capacity-building efforts to enhance AI-driven public participation.