ELGIA holds a Regional Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital and Social Media Conference
ELGIA Regional Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital and Social Media Conference for Democratic Integrity Set for December 3rd – 4th, 2024 at Villa Rosa Kempinski, Nairobi, Kenya. The Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA) will play host to a groundbreaking event this December as experts from across East Africa and beyond convene to address the critical intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and democratic integrity. The Regional Conference on Regulating AI, Digital, and Social Media to Protect Democracy in the East African Community is set to take place from December 3rd – 4th, 2024, at the prestigious Villa Rosa Kempinski.
This high-profile conference will gather government officials, electoral management bodies, technology leaders, civil society organizations, and regulatory experts for two days of intensive sessions. The discussions will delve into the transformative potential of AI in electoral processes while addressing the risks it poses to democracy. Delegates from countries including South Africa, Malawi, Zambia, Ethiopia, Uganda, Nigeria, Botswana, Tanzania, and Malawi will enrich the event with their diverse perspectives and experiences.
Exploring Global and Regional AI Trends Impacting Democracy On Tuesday, December 3rd, the conference will open with an examination of how global and regional AI trends are reshaping democratic landscapes. The sessions will highlight AI’s capacity to revolutionize elections by enhancing voter engagement, ensuring transparency, and improving the efficiency of electoral systems. Particular emphasis will be placed on the opportunities AI presents for advancing inclusive and participatory democracies.
The day will also confront the risks of unregulated AI, including its role in spreading misinformation, disinformation, and cyber threats. Representatives from leading tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, Meta, and TikTok will share insights on combating these challenges, underscoring how partnerships between technology companies and governments can foster safer electoral environments.
Discussions will culminate with input from regulators and fact-checkers on strategies to mitigate fake news and digital interference in elections. Regional Strategies and Ethical AI Practices The agenda for Wednesday, December 4th, will shift to regional AI trends and their implications for democratic governance in Africa. Discussions will prioritize crafting an AI strategy tailored to Africa’s unique needs, grounded in international ethical standards.
Key sessions will explore AI’s role in resolving electoral disputes and safeguarding judicial independence in the digital age, focusing on how legal systems can adapt to the evolving influence of AI. The day will also emphasize the development of a regulatory framework for AI in elections, advocating for principles that balance innovation with transparency and accountability.
Participants will explore potential collaborations among governments, regulatory bodies, and the tech sector to establish an ecosystem that supports ethical AI use while mitigating associated risks. Building a Collaborative Vision The conference will close with a shared vision for regional cooperation and responsibility in integrating AI into electoral processes.
A formal vote of thanks from ELGIA will conclude the event, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders. A Pathway to Strengthening Democracy with AI This conference offers a unique platform for fostering dialogue and forging partnerships to ensure that AI becomes a force for good in electoral processes.
By bringing together diverse voices, the event aims to chart a path toward a robust regional framework that leverages AI to strengthen democracy across East Africa. Mark your calendars for this pivotal event, where innovation meets integrity to shape the future of democracy in the digital age.
