Conference (2025): AI Power vs Democracy Erosion

Date & Place:                   10 April 2025, 2-6pm, VŠE Praha, sq. W. Churchilla 1938/4, Prague 3, room RB210

Organized by:                  Prague Data Ethics Lab, see previous conference years at link here

Registration:                   Free Entry, Please register in this form in advance

Proceeding:                      ISBN with Book of Abstracts from Conference

Conference Overview
Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a transformative force reshaping global power structures, from corporate decision-making to government policies. Yet as AI systems grow more sophisticated, they also raise urgent questions about the resilience of democratic institutions. This conference will delve into how AI-driven innovations—ranging from predictive analytics to automated influence operations—can challenge transparency, equity, and public trust on a global scale.

Agenda

14:00, PART I, 90 min

Foreword by the Vice-Rector of the Prague University of Economics and Business, Assoc. Prof. Ota Novotný

  1. KEYNOTE-1: AI – Friend or Foe of Democracy? The Potential of Artificial Intelligence to Contribute to Both Democratic Erosion and Democratic Resilience, insight from political science, Assoc. Prof. Petra Guasti, (Institute of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University), 45 min
  2. Social Media, Misinformation, and Influence Operations in Elections, deep view on Romania presidential case in 2024, MS. Jiri Korcak & MS. David Pavlu, (Computer Scientists, Prague Data Ethics Lab), 20 min
  3. The Power of Democracy in the USA and AI Oligopolies, A journalist’s view of Donald Trump’s presidency in relation to influential American AI entrepreneurs, MA. Jiří Burýšek, (Journalist), 10 min

BREAK 15 min

 16:00, PART II, 90 min

  1. KEYNOTE-2: The Rise of AI: Transforming Global Power Structures, the tech-business focus, Dr. Richard A. Novak, (Data Scientist, Founder & CEO Omnicrane, Chairman Prague Data Ethics Lab), 30 min
  2. Governance in Society: Exploring the Evolving Role of Democracy, the very brief overview and trends from antic Greece to 20th century, Dr. Tomas Sigmund, (Philosopher, Vice Chairman Prague Data Ethics Lab), 25 min,
  3. Generation Z: Ideals, Engagement, and the Future of Democracy, sociological perspective, Dr. Anna Novotna & Dr. Kamil Matula, (Computer Scientists & Sociologists, Silesian University, Opava) 20 min

 17:30 – 18:00, CLOSING, and Networking

 

Why Attend
Through an interdisciplinary lens, speakers and panelists will examine the shifting balance of power between technology companies, governments, and civil society. By evaluating real-world examples of AI deployment, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of both the potential benefits and the hidden risks posed by these tools. Join us to explore the critical intersection of AI power and democracy, and to help chart a path forward that safeguards core democratic values in the face of rapid technological change.