FRA and the Commission for Citizenship, Governance, Institutional and External Affairs of the European Committee of the Regions held their annual dialogue on 10 November. This year’s exchange was dedicated to defending local democracy, fundamental rights and public trust in the digital age.
It explored the opportunities and risks of AI for cities and regions. FRA highlighted how AI can help local and regional authorities improve public administration and services, while stressing the need for transparency, human oversight and clear accountability.
Local and regional representatives highlighted practical challenges, including the need for expertise and capacity to implement the EU AI Act. Discussions also covered AI chatbots and automated administrative processes, deepfakes, access to public information and public distrust.
CIVEX members stressed that AI should support public administrations without replacing human decision-making.