A Vote, A Voice, A Virus—Democracy Battles the Algorithms of Influence

As generative AI tools become more powerful and accessible, their impact on democratic processes is turning increasingly disruptive. From viral deepfakes to algorithmic voter targeting, experts warn that artificial intelligence is eroding trust in electoral integrity across continents.

Key highlights from recent findings:

In 2024, AI was used in over 80% of global elections, with 215 documented instances of influence operations
Romania’s presidential election was nullified after a Russianbacked AI campaign manipulated public sentiment via TikTok
India’s elections saw widespread use of AIgenerated candidate clones, often without proper disclaimers on platforms like Meta
In Germany and Poland, farright parties surged amid AIdriven disinformation campaigns
The International Panel on the Information Environment found AI played a harmful role in 69% of surveyed election cases

Strategic concerns:

AIgenerated fake videos and voice clones have made it nearly impossible to distinguish truth from fabrication
Autocratic regimes are leveraging AI to amplify antidemocratic narratives and support pliant candidates abroad
Social media platforms struggle to contain the spread, with many failing to label or remove manipulated content
AI bots now evade detection across major platforms including X, TikTok, Reddit, and LinkedIn

While some candidates use AI for translation and outreach, the overwhelming trend points to misuse. As elections intensify in 2025, regulators, platforms, and civil society face mounting pressure to safeguard democratic norms from synthetic sabotage.

Sources: The Indian Express, Deccan Herald, Oman Observer, Benton.org, TV News Check, New York Times, Center for Media Engagement, International Panel on the Information Environment, Reuters, PTI