South Korea Summit Highlights AI Threats to Democracy
Meanwhile, China dismissed accusations of spreading disinformation, labeling them as biased and reflective of double standards.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has emphasized the dangers of fake news and disinformation fueled by artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, warning that these threats not only undermine individual freedoms but also pose significant risks to democratic systems. Speaking at the opening of the third Summit for Democracy in Seoul, Yoon stressed the importance of leveraging technology to promote democracy while addressing the challenges.
The Summit for Democracy, initiated by U.S. President Joe Biden, aims to address democratic backsliding and the erosion of rights and freedoms. Representatives from over 30 countries, spanning from Costa Rica to the United States and Ghana, are convening to discuss strategies to combat disinformation and uphold democratic values in the digital age, according to Reuters.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated the need to ensure that technology supports democratic norms, particularly as authoritarian regimes exploit technological advancements to undermine democracy and human rights. He highlighted the risks of disinformation in cyberspace, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 election, while accusing Russia and China of orchestrating global campaigns to manipulate information.
European officials also condemned Russia for its alleged dissemination of disinformation through AI-driven propaganda, describing it as a threat to democratic principles. Meanwhile, China dismissed accusations of spreading disinformation, labeling them as biased and reflective of double standards.
The summit coincided with North Korea's launch of short-range ballistic missiles and Russian President Vladimir Putin's victory in a presidential election marred by criticism of its fairness. The White House criticized Putin's reelection, citing concerns about political repression and the lack of a level playing field for opposition candidates.
The United States announced new measures to protect human rights defenders online and expand efforts to combat the misuse of commercial spyware. The participation of South Korea and Japan in these initiatives reflects a broader international commitment to safeguarding democratic values in the face of technological challenges.
