The human right to participate and its connection to artificial intelligence

This article analyses the right to participate in democracy as a human right and its link to the development and implementation of artificial intelligence. First, it explores the fundamental aspect of the right to participate as a human right in the democratic framework, reflecting on its importance and its basic function of generating open spaces for the debate and presentation of other rights, highlighting that political participation generates a pull effect on other rights as citizens are in a favourable position for the defence and recognition of their rights. Next, emphasis is placed on the role of emerging technologies in facilitating and enhancing democratic engagement, bearing in mind that technological development has a direct influence on all aspects of people’s lives, so that democracy in general, and each society’s methods of organisation in particular, are also affected. Finally, a significant part of the discussion revolves around the future perspective of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on democracy, exploring both favourable developments and potential challenges. Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly continue to conquer more spheres of human endeavour, so it is worth reflecting on the importance of adapting this new technology to the future of democracies, while respecting its essential elements and guaranteeing citizens’ fundamental rights. Finally, the article concludes by summarising the main ideas and implications, underlining the critical importance of safeguarding democratic principles in the midst of technological advances. Received: 30 May 2024 Accepted: 02 December 2024