Considerations from Society of the Clerks of the Table Africa Region Panel in Arusha/ Tanzania in May, 2024.
This publication was developed by Bússola Tech, in partnership with the Society of Clerks-at-the-Table (Socatt) Africa Region.
Authors: Luís Kimaid from Bússola Tech, Prince Kenneh from the Parliament of Sierra Leone and David Mulenga from the National Assembly of Zambia.
Reviewers: João Lima from the Senate of Brazil and Ari Hershowitz from Govable.
Summary
Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers transformative potential for parliamentary operations, much like the historical innovations of the printing press and the internet. AI can significantly enhance legislative services by automating tasks, supporting legislative drafting, and improving public engagement. Key opportunities include real-time transcription of parliamentary debates, drafting assistance, document digitisation, automated document distribution, and real-time translation. However, integrating AI also raises challenges related to accuracy, transparency, and compliance with procedural rules. Ensuring human oversight and continuous evaluation are crucial for responsible AI implementation. By carefully balancing innovation with democratic principles, parliaments can effectively harness AI to improve efficiency, accuracy, and public trust in legislative processes.
Bússola Tech is a international Think Tank committed to fostering institutional modernization and digital transformation within Parliaments and Subnational Legislatures. We aim to foster greater cooperation between Legislative Institutions, and peer-to-peer collaboration, in the exchange of experiences in the efforts about legislative modernisation and digital transformation.
