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Artificial Intelligence and Fragile Democracy in West Africa: Between Digital Repression and Citizen Mobilization

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  • Etienne Fakaba Sissoko

    (Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako - USSGB - Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako, CRAPES MALI - Centre de Recherche et d'Analyses Politiques, Economiques et Sociales du Mali, Faculté des Sciences économiques et de Gestion - USSGB - Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako)

  • Khalid Dembele

    (USSGB - Université des sciences sociales et de gestion de Bamako)

Abstract

This article explores the ambivalence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fragile democracies of West Africa, based on a qualitative study involving 385 participants in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. It highlights a dual use of AI: as a tool of digital repression (surveillance, censorship, disinformation) and as a lever for citizen mobilization (fact-checking, mapping, diaspora activism). This tension confirms that AI can both reinforce authoritarianism and support democratic action. The article introduces two concepts: contradicted algorithmic sovereignty, referring to African states' structural dependence on foreign technologies; and algorithmic vulnerability, characterizing their increased exposure to digital manipulation. The study calls for an African regulatory framework on AI and for comparative, longitudinal research into its political uses in fragile contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Etienne Fakaba Sissoko & Khalid Dembele, 2025. "Artificial Intelligence and Fragile Democracy in West Africa: Between Digital Repression and Citizen Mobilization," Post-Print hal-05301808, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05301808
    DOI: 10.38124/ijisrt/25oct151
    as

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