The thematic focus of Work Package 4 (WP4) revolves around leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance deliberative processes through the development of a robust toolkit, a modular architecture, and a comprehensive knowledge graph. The overarching goal is to integrate advanced AI methodologies into platforms supporting democratic deliberations, fostering transparency, inclusivity, and enriched engagement.

Advancing AI for Deliberation Activities

A cornerstone of WP4 is the identification and assessment of open-source AI tools and models, including state-of-the-art large language models (LLMs) and multimodal models (e.g., video-integrated LLMs). These technologies will be evaluated for their capability to handle deliberation-specific tasks such as argument extraction, summarization, and context-sensitive content generation. The thematic focus underscores a commitment to inclusivity, as these tools will be accessible to diverse stakeholders across different deliberative platforms.

The thematic scope also includes gamification techniques—avatars, skill points, and scores—to motivate user participation and engagement. These features will not only enhance user experience but also foster an inclusive deliberative environment where contributions are acknowledged and rewarded.

Modular and Reusable Reference Architecture

The design of a modular and reusable Reference Architecture is another critical thematic area. This architecture will provide a framework for integrating AI-driven functionalities seamlessly into deliberative platforms. By adopting an agile, ethics-by-design methodology, the architecture will prioritize explainability, transparency, and trustworthiness. It will be adaptable to various platforms, ensuring scalability and versatility across different deliberative contexts. Iterative development in alignment with pilot feedback ensures the architecture evolves to meet practical needs and operational realities.

Deliberation Knowledge Graph

The creation of a Deliberation Knowledge Graph represents a thematic emphasis on data-driven decision-making. The knowledge graph will integrate structured and unstructured data, linking arguments, evidence, and participants’ contributions into a coherent, navigable framework. Designed to comply with FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles, the knowledge graph will empower stakeholders to explore deliberation content interactively, uncover insights, and track decision-making trajectories. Hosted on an open-source graph database, it will serve as a foundational layer for AI functionalities like summarization, argument clustering, and evidence linkage.

Integration of AI and Gamification

The thematic emphasis extends to the integration of AI and gamification within deliberative platforms and mobile applications. By embedding APIs and plugins into platforms such as Consul, DebateGraph, or Common Ground, WP4 ensures that AI capabilities are accessible to end-users. The gamified elements will incentivize participation, creating a dynamic and engaging deliberative ecosystem. A mobile application will further democratize access, enabling conversational and video-based exploration of deliberative content, tailored to the preferences of diverse participants.

Alignment with Ethical and Technical Standards

WP4’s thematic focus is deeply aligned with ethical considerations and technical standards. The integration of explainability, transparency, and trustworthiness into AI models reflects a commitment to fostering trust among stakeholders. The iterative development process, based on agile and design science principles, ensures the AI tools and architectures are continually refined and validated against real-world pilot evaluations.

Conclusion

WP4’s thematic area captures the transformative potential of AI in deliberative processes. By merging state-of-the-art AI tools, a robust knowledge graph, and an adaptable architecture with ethical and gamified elements, WP4 lays the groundwork for enhanced democratic participation and decision-making. The iterative, user-centered approach ensures that these technologies are not only cutting-edge but also practical, inclusive, and aligned with the broader goals of democratic innovation.

Author: Faye Petromelidou, Digital Marketing, Dissemination and Communication Manager at Konnektable Technologies Ltd.