TLDR: With Jamaica’s 2025 general election approaching, there’s a strong call for an AI code of conduct to combat the potential misuse of generative artificial intelligence. Experts warn that AI could spread misinformation, manipulate public opinion, and undermine democratic trust, citing global examples of AI-driven political interference. The proposed code aims to ensure transparency, prevent deepfakes, and hold parties accountable for misleading AI content, serving as a crucial safeguard for the upcoming campaign season.
Jamaica is on the cusp of its first general election in the era of generative artificial intelligence, scheduled for September 3, 2025, and concerns are mounting over the potential for AI misuse. Experts are urgently advocating for the establishment of a comprehensive AI code of conduct to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process. The risks associated with AI are deemed too significant to ignore, as the technology has already demonstrated its capacity to disseminate false information, manipulate public opinion, and erode trust in democratic institutions worldwide .
Historically, Jamaican elections have been characterized by political drama and intense rivalries, with past periods even marked by violence. While the nation’s democracy has matured beyond those darker days, a new, insidious threat looms: AI-generated content. This includes fake images, videos, and voice impersonations, which could become potent weapons in the political arena if proactive measures are not taken .
Matthew Stone, president, and Nadeen Matthews Blair, chair, of the Jamaica Artificial Intelligence Association, are prominent voices in this call for action. They emphasize that Jamaica has previously learned the hard way about the consequences of lagging regulation behind technological advancements, pointing to issues like lotto scamming and cyber fraud. They argue that this is an opportunity to get ahead of the curve .
Global precedents highlight the urgency of the situation. Examples of AI-driven interference in politics include a fake political advertisement featuring US Vice-President Kamala Harris, which was widely circulated and reshared despite being manipulated. Another instance involved an AI-generated image of Donald Trump surrounded by ‘black supporters,’ fabricated to imply broader support. Such content, even if not directly created by political figures, can cause significant harm when reshared, swaying public opinion with false visuals and misleading narratives .
To counter these threats, the National AI Task Force has already proposed policy recommendations. Key principles for an AI code of conduct should include:
No AI-generated deepfakes: Prohibiting the creation of videos, images, or voices that falsely depict candidates saying or doing things they never did .
Transparency in political ads: Mandating clear labeling for any campaign materials developed with AI assistance .
No AI-powered disinformation: Preventing the use of AI to spread false claims about candidates, election dates, or voting procedures .
No AI voter suppression: Banning AI-generated robocalls, fake messages, and deepfake recordings designed to mislead voters or discourage participation .
Accountability for resharing: Holding parties and individuals responsible not only for producing but also for resharing manipulated or misleading AI content .
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Political parties are encouraged to lead by example, demonstrating that Jamaica’s democracy can adapt and protect itself in the digital age. While an AI code of conduct may not be a panacea, it is seen as a vital step to ensure that the 2025 election focuses on genuine issues and choices, rather than manipulated content and AI fakes. The time for implementation, according to advocates, is now .
