Procedural Modernisation in Parliaments: An AI-centric Approach
Written on July, 2023
Introduction
As parliaments worldwide grapple with the demands of the 21st century, the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in procedural modernisation has come into focus. Generative AI tools, including but not limited to OpenAI's GPT and Google's Baird, promise a path toward increased efficiency. Nevertheless, the path to integrating these tools into existing parliamentary systems carries with it a certain level of complexity. These challenges necessitate careful planning and strategy, ensuring that innovation does not compromise procedural integrity.
AI and Procedural Tasks
Generative AI's ability to create human-like outputs means it could be invaluable in undertaking procedural tasks. However, the key concern lies in defining the appropriate boundaries for AI involvement in the legislative process. Whilst AI may convincingly mimic certain outputs, the risk of misinterpretation or error remains, particularly when dealing with tasks requiring significant expertise, such as drafting legislation. AI may best serve in roles of lower complexity, perhaps analogous to those assigned to less experienced participants in the parliamentary process, thus enhancing efficiency without risking procedural integrity.
Transparency and Trust
The application of AI within parliament isn't just a technological shift, but also has critical policy implications. As AI systems become more sophisticated and indistinguishable from human communication, transparency becomes a paramount concern. Striking the right balance between efficient AI-driven responses and open communication with the citizenry is crucial to avoid undermining public trust in the institution of parliament.
Handling Data in AI-Driven Procedures
The operational capacity of AI in parliamentary procedures is intrinsically linked to the underlying data that the AI models work with. Several critical factors come into play here: the age and relevance of the data, the hierarchical structure of the data and potential biases contained within it. It is crucial to take these into consideration when implementing AI-driven procedures, to ensure outputs align correctly with parliamentary processes and societal values.
Conclusion
While the potential of AI to modernise parliamentary procedures is clear, its integration demands a strategic approach that ensures procedural integrity isn't compromised. By clearly defining the roles of AI in the process, maintaining transparency in AI operations, and managing the data within AI models carefully, AI can be a tool of transformation within parliamentary procedures. It can complement human judgement and wisdom, but it's imperative to remember that it does not substitute them. The future of procedural modernisation in parliaments may well lie in striking this delicate balance.