This report examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can transform political finance oversight, helping electoral management bodies (EMBs) automate routine tasks, analyse financial data more deeply and improve compliance monitoring. Drawing on case studies from Lithuania, Mexico and the UK, it highlights practical AI applications—from invoice scanning to real-time expense tracking—and the benefits of increased transparency and efficiency.

The report also addresses key challenges, including resource constraints, digital skills gaps and the importance of public trust. It advocates for a ‘human in the loop’ approach, ensuring AI supports—and does not replace—democratic oversight. With practical recommendations for policymakers, regulators and other practitioners, this report is an essential guide for anyone interested in the future of democracy, transparency and the responsible use of AI in political finance. By fostering collaboration across EMBs, political parties, civil society, academia and industry, it charts a path towards more accountable, trustworthy and resilient electoral systems.

Details

Publication date
04 February 2026
Language(s)
English
Author(s)
Sam Power and Gilsun Jeong
Number of pages
41
ISBN
978-91-8137-094-2 (PDF)
978-91-8137-095-9 (HTML)

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Contents

Introduction and overview

1. Political finance and trust in democratic politics

2. Electoral management, AI and political finance oversight

3. Opportunities for using AI in the regulation of political finance

4. Barriers to the use of AI

5. Towards a system of best practice

6. Conclusion and recommendations

References

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Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Political Finance Oversight

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