Medborgare eller kund? Statliga myndigheters syn på artificiell intelligens och demokrati

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is often perceived as a purely technical issue, but it has significant implications for democracy and human rights. This study examines how Swedish government agencies relate to AI in connection with democratic values, and how civil society perceives its role in AI development. The study employs a mixed methods approach: a quantitative and qualitative text analysis of 22 government agencies’ annual reports and AI-related documents, as well as a focus group with participants from various civil society organizations. The results show that government agencies primarily view AI as a technical solution focused on efficiency and user experience, rather than as a matter of rights, equality, or participation. Civil society, by contrast, clearly links AI to democratic principles but feels it is rarely invited to participate as a co-creator in AI development. The study highlights the need to strengthen the role of civil society in AI-related decision-making processes to ensure a democratic anchoring of technological development.