Written by Jaroslav Poláček (Guest Contributor)

Political parties in the Czech Republic have adopted artificial intelligence primarily as a tool for internal processes. AI helps with drafting texts, creating subtitles, developing graphic materials, and analyzing data, but it remains largely behind the scenes. This approach reflects the general caution of Czech politicians toward new technologies, as well as a focus on measured, incremental adoption.

Interestingly, the most visible implementation of AI in Czech politics appeared in the graphics produced by SPD on migration issues. These materials are easily identifiable as AI-generated, for example, due to basic inconsistencies such as the number of fingers on depicted hands. Such applications highlight the potential risks of AI-generated content when not carefully managed and may shape public perception of AI in the political context.

Missed opportunities with chatbots

The field of chatbots represents one of the more promising applications of AI in political campaigns. Thanks to the openness of some clients, we at PRodukujeme were among the first to deploy chatbots in the 2024 regional and senate elections.

Recently, other parties exploring chatbots, such as STAN, did not continue running them during the parliamentary campaign. This illustrates both the novelty of the technology and the challenges parties face in integrating new tools. Chatbots offer the potential for more individualized communication with voters, enabling targeted responses to questions and interests, and supporting data-driven campaign decisions.

Regulatory uncertainty

The adoption of AI is also shaped by regulatory timing. The EU AI Act came into force on August 1, 2024, but provisions for advanced AI models will only be fully implemented in August 2025. Meanwhile, the EU regulation on political advertising transparency largely takes effect on October 10, 2025 — shortly after the Czech parliamentary elections.

This creates a period of uncertainty during which parties may hesitate to deploy new tools fully, to avoid potential compliance costs. Even private initiatives, such as the Czech Association of Artificial Intelligence’s draft code for ethical AI use in campaigns, have not yet been widely adopted.

An opportunity for transparency

One relatively straightforward solution could be transparency in AI use. Publishing prompts or sharing the underlying data could help strengthen credibility, for example when using AI to answer inquiries about party platforms. Such openness might shift the perception of AI from a potentially manipulative tool to a practical assistant for informed voter engagement.

Currently, AI is present but largely invisible in campaigns, which can create space for speculation and caution among voters. Making its role clearer could foster trust rather than concern.

Rational risk management versus technological vision

The cautious approach of Czech political parties to AI may reflect careful risk management rather than technological hesitation. Publicly deploying AI carries reputational risks if errors or misperceptions occur. Financial and personnel constraints also affect the ability to implement advanced AI tools, which require specialized management and analysis to be effective.

Finally, voter perspective matters. The use of individualized campaigns could be perceived as helpful or intrusive. Political parties appear to be weighing these considerations carefully, suggesting that measured deployment may be a rational strategy rather than a missed opportunity.

Jaroslav Poláček has been involved in communications and election campaigns for over twenty years. Local, regional, and national. From strategy to PR production. He worked as a chief analyst and later as an election manager, leading national campaigns for the KDU-ČSL (2008-2009) and TOP 09 (2009-2016) parties. He founded the company PRodukujeme and wrote the book Volby v kapse (Elections in Your Pocket).