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!

MEETING VULNERABLE CITIZENS TO IDENTIFY THEIR NEEDS The ITHACA project partners plan to assess the ability of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance citizens´ participation in the local governance. For this purpose, two participatory workshops will be organized in the project pilot cities of Martin (Slovakia) and Brasov (Romania) in September 2023. The aim of the […]