The ITHACA project is an innovative initiative focused on understanding the complexities and challenges of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into civic participation. Its primary objective is to promote responsible research and innovation that aligns AI technologies with human rights, values, and ethical principles, ultimately enhancing the positive impact of AI on democratic institutions and processes.

To achieve this, ITHACA will develop an online discussion platform that prioritizes human-centric design and transparency, particularly addressing the needs of vulnerable groups. Through pilot activities in Romania and Slovakia, the project will explore how AI can improve citizen participation in local governance while minimizing negative effects and empowering citizens with knowledge about the AI models used.

Additionally, ITHACA will create tools to identify security risks and ensure fairness and privacy in AI systems. Based on its findings, the project will propose a data governance framework with ethical guidelines for AI civic engagement platforms and provide policy recommendations to incorporate philosophical, legal, and ethical values into their development.