Youth Input Needed: Shaping AI for Better Public Services

AI Transforms Public Services, But Youth Input is Crucial

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping how governments deliver public services, promising greater efficiency and responsiveness. However, experts warn that without proper oversight and youth involvement, these technologies could reinforce inefficiencies and erode public trust.

Young people are increasingly demanding transparency and accountability as AI becomes integral to public service delivery. While AI offers the potential to make services more proactive, there is a growing concern that it could exacerbate existing issues if human impact is not prioritized.

The Promise and Risks of AI in Public Services

AI and data-driven technologies have the capacity to revolutionize public services by making them more responsive to citizens' needs. For instance, AI can help governments predict demand for services, allocate resources more effectively, and provide personalized support. However, relying too heavily on AI systems carries risks, such as service disruptions and privacy breaches.

"AI is not a magic solution," said Dr. Emily Thompson, a public policy expert. "It requires careful design with human oversight to ensure it benefits citizens without compromising their privacy or security."

Governments must prioritize resilience when integrating AI into public services. This means building systems that can withstand cyberattacks and ensure the protection of citizen data. Without these safeguards, citizens may lose trust in AI-enabled services.

Global AI Strategies: Uneven Progress

Many countries are developing national AI strategies, but few have robust frameworks for monitoring outcomes. The OECD reports that digital government adoption is uneven, with countries struggling to share data effectively and ensure consistent oversight.

Germany's digital health projects, such as electronic health records, aim to empower patients by giving them control over their data. However, fragmented governance has led to underutilization of these systems, limiting their potential benefits.

Similar challenges are seen in the Philippines, where siloed databases hinder effective data sharing. In Chile, the lack of a central framework for tracking digital government investments has slowed progress.

Digital Sovereignty and Infrastructure

Digital sovereignty goes beyond data storage—it requires skilled teams and resilient infrastructure to use data in the public interest. Publishing open data is insufficient if citizens lack the tools to interpret and apply it effectively.

"Digital sovereignty is about more than just controlling data," said Maria Rodriguez, a digital rights advocate. "It's about ensuring that governments have the capacity to use data responsibly and transparently."

Cybersecurity and Citizen Trust

Public infrastructures must be designed to resist cyberattacks and safeguard citizen data. Without these protections, citizens cannot trust AI-enabled public services. For example, Mexico's biometric CURP system, which incorporates fingerprint and iris data, has raised concerns among digital rights groups about potential mass surveillance.

"Biometric data is highly sensitive," said Carlos Martinez, a cybersecurity expert. "Governments must ensure that such data is protected and used ethically to maintain public trust."

Youth Involvement and Agile Models

Transparent design and inclusive participation are essential for building trustworthy AI systems. Some governments are experimenting with agile models to test GovTech solutions, involving young people in the process.

Youth networks can act as living laboratories for innovation by partnering with universities and startups. This approach allows governments to tap into young people’s perspectives and ensure that AI systems are designed with their needs in mind.

"Youth involvement is not just a nice-to-have—it's a necessity," said Sarah Lee, a youth engagement specialist. "Young people bring fresh ideas and a critical eye to AI development, helping to ensure these technologies serve the public good."

The Path Forward

AI will reshape public services, but only if citizens remain at the center of design. Pilot projects need credible routes to scale, and digital sovereignty must include the capacity to govern AI effectively.

"The future of AI in public services depends on collaboration," said Dr. Thompson. "By involving young people, prioritizing transparency, and investing in resilient infrastructure, governments can build trust and unlock the full potential of AI for the public good."