IFES is seeking NGOs to prepare Sectoral Recommendations on the Use of AI / IFES шукає ГО для підготовки рекомендацій щодо використання ШІ

IFES is an independent, non-governmental organization providing professional support to electoral democracy. IFES supports citizens’ rights to participate in free and fair elections. Our independent expertise strengthens electoral systems and builds local capacity to deliver sustainable solutions.

 As the global leader in democracy promotion, we advance good governance and democratic rights by Providing technical assistance to election officials, Empowering the underrepresented to participate in electoral and political processes, and Applying field-based research to improve the electoral cycle.

 Since 1987, IFES has worked in over 145 countries – from developing democracies, to mature democracies.

 IFES invites non-governmental, non-profit organizations meeting the relevant operational and performance requirements to submit applications for the 6-month knowledge-enhancing project. The purpose of the project is to empower the Central Election Commission (CEC) and the Ministry of Digital Transformation with the knowledge to regulate the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the human rights framework, specifically focusing on preventing breaches of personal data, disinformation, gender and discriminatory bias, and manipulation.

 Subaward funds may be used only for activities that are directly related to the implementation of the subaward project, which will be funded under this competition.

 The project seeks to equip the CEC and MDT with knowledge on the influence of AI on electoral rights, focusing on both practical recommendations for the CEC and MDT and a review of international practices. The result of the assignment is to produce two documents for the CEC and MDT: – (1) sectoral recommendations on the influence of AI use on electoral rights and (2) an overview of international practices for the use of AI by Election Management Bodies (EMBs). These efforts align with the goal of enhancing efficiency, and integrity of Ukraine’s public bodies.

1) Sectoral Recommendations on AI Use: Safeguarding Electoral Rights (Task 1): The first task will develop a detailed, actionable methodology to study the use of AI in their operations. The subgrant will support the following activities:

• Research and Analysis: Conduct a comprehensive review of current electoral practices and identify how AI influences electoral rights, particularly focusing on internationally recognized electoral principles.
• Development of Methodology: Design a structured framework to guide the CEC and MDT on how to implement AI tools while safeguarding electoral rights. This framework may include ethical guidelines, a phased implementation plan, and criteria for evaluating AI tools such as predictive algorithms and automated decision-making systems that could impact international electoral principles.
• Consultations with Stakeholders: Organize consultations with key stakeholders from the CEC, MDT, human rights organizations, and AI experts to ensure that the recommendations align with institutional capacities, legal requirements, and technological advancements.
• Report Production: The subgrant will cover the costs of producing a comprehensive report, including design and translation into Ukrainian if needed, to facilitate ease of use by MDT, the CEC and the public on maintaining electoral rights in the age of AI.

2) Overview of International Practices on the Use of AI by EMBs (Task 2): The second task will involve researching and documenting how AI is by the EMBs globally, identifying practices that could be appropriate in Ukraine’s context. Funding will support:

• Research on Global AI Usage by the EMBs: Conduct in-depth research into how AI has been utilized in elections across various countries, focusing on examples from both established democracies and emerging digital governance systems.
• Development of Case Studies: Create case studies that illustrate the benefits and challenges of AI integration in elections. Countries like Estonia (e-governance), India (voter database management), and the United States (disinformation detection) will serve as key examples.
• Comparative Analysis: Perform a comparative analysis to evaluate how these international experiences can be applied in Ukraine’s electoral environment.
• Compilation of a Summary Report: Produce a clear and accessible report summarizing the international best practices, with recommendations for future AI implementation in Ukraine’s electoral system.

To be eligible for consideration under this subaward, applicants must meet the following basic criteria:

• Non-Governmental Organization Status: The applicant must be a registered and operational non-governmental organization (NGO).
• Membership in the Expert Committee on the Development of Artificial Intelligence: The applicant must be an active and recognized member of the Expert Committee on the Development of Artificial Intelligence at the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine.
• Strong background in AI and previous positive experience in this field. The applicant should provide a summary of the organization’s experience, where specific projects, studies, or activities that demonstrate previous expertise in this field should be highlighted.

Individuals and the following organizations are not eligible to access funding:

• Governmental and semi-governmental institutions
• International organizations
• Political parties or organizations affiliated with or engaging in partisan activities • Organizations running on a for-profit basis

Timeline of the project

The period of implementation of the contract will be 6 months. The intended commencement date is the date of signature of the contract with the provider.

All applications should include the following, in order for their application to be considered:

1) Technical Application

2) Cost Application – Budget & Budget Narrative

3) A brief outline of the applicant’s organization and experience.

4) Additional documentation:

• When available, a copy of the organization’s most recent final, signed audits/financial statements
• Proof of organization’s registration or a signed letter indicating why the organization is not registered
• CVs of key personnel including the organization’s Director and anticipated program manager
• Any other supporting document that will strengthen the application

More detailed information on the competition, including requirements for candidates, as well as a complete list of documents required for participation, is available in the RFA-25-006.