AI's Role in Dictatorship: Disinformation, Censorship, and Surveillance on the Rise

Political leaders in at least 16 countries, including the United States, have been using AI deepfakes to sow doubt, smear opponents, and influence public debate, according to a report by Freedom House. Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have both utilized deepfaked videos and audio to attack each other. The report highlights how AI can amplify digital repression, making censorship, surveillance, and the spread of disinformation easier and more effective. Governments in 22 countries have legal frameworks mandating social media companies to deploy AI for removing disfavored political, social, and religious speech, which goes beyond standard content moderation policies. State actors are also turning to private "AI for hire" companies to create AI-generated propaganda, including deepfake newscasters. The report emphasizes the need for increased regulation and transparency to protect human rights in the face of AI manipulation.