The Mobilising Effect of AI-Generated Misinformation: The Case of Slovakia

This paper investigates the role of AI-generated misinformation in shaping electoral outcomes, focusing on the 2023 Slovakian parliamentary elections and the rise of populist leader Robert Fico. Specifically, it examines whether the circulation of AI-generated audio, which falsely incriminated opposition leader Michal Šimečka of election fraud, influenced voter behaviour and contributed to Fico’s electoral success. Despite the speculative and hypothetical nature of the analysis due to data constraints at the time of writing (in early 2024), the paper asserts that AI-generated misinformation played a key role in galvanising disenchanted voters and amplifying the “Trump effect,” particularly in a highly contentious election. Drawing on existing literature, the paper underscores the growing influence of digital media and AI technologies in spreading misinformation, which can disrupt democratic processes. Lastly, the essay calls for further empirical research to shed light on the impact of AI-driven disinformation on electoral outcomes. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on misinformation in politics and the intersection of AI, populism, and electoral dynamics.