(AI) democracy development in Taiwan - the future and the challenges

 
TLDR
Audrey Tang envisions a future where AI enhances democracy by improving transparency and citizen participation. Her vision emphasizes safeguarding against cyber threats, fostering participatory democracy through digital platforms, and maintaining non-violent communication. Tang sees democracy as a dynamic system that evolves with technological innovation and societal needs.


In today’s rapidly digitalizing world, Taiwan’s former Digital Minister, Audrey Tang, offers a forward-looking vision of how democracy can evolve with technology, especially by integrating artificial intelligence (AI). Tang advocates using AI not as a threat to democracy but as a tool to enhance transparency, increase citizen participation, and foster a collaborative relationship between governments and their people.
 
According to Tang, AI can facilitate real-time access to legislative discussions and voting systems, which have been successfully implemented in Taiwan. By enabling more direct access to information and decision-making processes, AI helps rebuild public trust in democratic institutions and engages citizens who might otherwise be marginalized in traditional political frameworks.
 
Tang’s vision is not without challenges. She emphasizes the importance of safeguarding democratic systems against the ever-growing threats of cyberattacks and disinformation, which have become more sophisticated as digitalization expands. Tang promotes the concept of “pre-bunking,” where data analysis is used to counter misinformation before it spreads widely, maintaining the integrity of the information flow in democratic societies. This proactive strategy aims to prevent the erosion of public trust caused by disinformation campaigns.
 
Beyond the technical aspects, Tang also advocates for a model of participatory democracy where citizens are not only invited but actively encouraged to contribute to governance through digital platforms. In Taiwan, this model has already led to greater civic engagement and demonstrated that digital democracy can be a dynamic, evolving system that responds to societal needs. Tang insists that technology should adapt to people, not vice versa, and that transparency should mean making governments more open to the public rather than subjecting citizens to constant surveillance.
 
Tang’s democratic vision is rooted in democracy as a form of “social technology” that can continuously improve through innovation, much like software updates. In this view, democracy is not a static structure but a living system that evolves with time, especially as technological advancements present new opportunities and challenges.
 
Tang also stresses the importance of non-violent communication and inclusive dialogue, particularly during social unrest or political protests. She believes democratic legitimacy arises when all voices, including dissenting ones, are heard and respected. By fostering dialogue rather than polarization, democracies can navigate crises more constructively.
 
Audrey Tang’s approach to digital democracy is characterized by openness, flexibility, and a commitment to transparency. She envisions a world where technology strengthens democratic processes, making them more inclusive and resilient to future challenges.
 
Thanks for reading. Please follow my blog and write your feedback.