IPU calls for responsible use of AI to curb misinformation

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has called for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies to curb misinformation, protect human rights and safeguard data security. The call is contained in the Arusha Communiqué, presented on October 9, 2026 at the conclusion of the 153rd IPU Assembly held in Arusha. The communiqué urges countries to harness AI and other emerging technologies to improve public access to information and strengthen citizens’ participation in decision-making, while addressing the risks associated with their use. “We will also explore the responsible use of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies to enhance public participation and access to information, while addressing digital divides, bias, misinformation and human rights risks through appropriate guidelines, safeguards and oversight,” the communiqué states. The document highlights the importance of ensuring that technological advancements do not deepen existing inequalities, undermine fundamental rights or expose citizens to misleading information. It calls on countries to examine how emerging technologies can make information more accessible and enable citizens to participate more effectively in parliamentary affairs. However, the communiqué cautions that the adoption of digital technologies must take into account challenges such as unequal access to technology, bias in technological systems, misinformation and potential human rights violations. It further stresses the need for clear guidelines, safeguards and effective oversight mechanisms, including the protection of personal data and respect for national sovereignty in data management. The communiqué was jointly presented by the Chairperson of the Tanzania MP’s delegation at IPU 153 Assembly and IPU Executive Committee member, Barrister Jahrat Adib Chowdhury from Bangladesh. Beyond technology, the communiqué calls for greater transparency and accountability in public institutions, noting that good governance depends on trust between citizens and the institutions that serve them. It states that parliaments have a responsibility to bridge the gap between citizens and public institutions by ensuring that people’s views are considered in decisions affecting their lives. “Democracy begins in communities and is strengthened when citizens’ voices are considered in decision-making at every level,” the communiqué states. According to the document, transparent, accountable and inclusive institutions are essential for protecting citizens’ rights, improving their well-being and promoting peaceful societies. The communiqué also urges parliaments to remove barriers that prevent women, persons with disabilities and other underrepresented groups from participating in parliamentary activities and decision-making processes. To advance these objectives, the Arusha Communiqué identifies five priority areas for action: aligning parliamentary work with citizens’ everyday realities, strengthening accountability and integrity, investing in civic education, making parliaments more inclusive and promoting long-term planning that considers the interests of future generations. On accountability, the communiqué encourages parliaments to strengthen anti-corruption efforts, parliamentary oversight and cooperation with audit institutions, local governments and civil society organisations. It also calls for greater public access to information on parliamentary decisions and the use of public resources to enable citizens to monitor the performance of public institutions. In promoting civic education, the document recommends improving public understanding of citizens’ rights and responsibilities, encouraging participation from an early age and promoting the accurate and responsible use of information. Parliaments are further encouraged to base their decisions on official statistics, scientific research, indigenous knowledge and citizens’ experiences. The communiqué also calls for assessments of how laws, policies and budgets affect women, young people and marginalised groups to ensure their needs are considered in the decision-making process. On long-term planning, it urges lawmakers to consider how present-day decisions will affect future generations while strengthening cooperation among parliaments to share experiences and best practices in good governance. The communiqué concludes by expressing appreciation to the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania for hosting the assembly in Arusha. Participants pledged to take the communiqué back to their respective parliaments and promote its implementation at national and local levels.