On August 28th, 2024, Bússola Tech convened a debate titled "Optimising Parliamentary AI with Research-Based Data." This session aimed to explore how AI can be harnessed to enhance parliamentary operations by integrating research-based data, while ensuring that traditional legislative values and processes are maintained.

Moderated by Mr. Luís Kimaid, the Executive Director of Bússola Tech, the debate featured distinguished participants: Ms. Mas Liza Maslan from the Parliament of Malaysia, Mr. Visvalingam Muralithas from the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Mr. Tahir Farooq from the National Assembly of Pakistan, and Mr. Grant Vergottini from Xcential Legislative Technologies.

The session began with each participant providing a brief introduction, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of the ways AI can be optimised within legislative contexts. The discussion was structured into three rounds, each focusing on a critical aspect of AI's potential in parliamentary settings.

In the first round, the panelists examined the unique benefits that a specialised AI system, trained on extensive legislative research and data, could offer compared to general AI models. They discussed how such a system could better serve Members of Parliament and the public by providing more relevant and precise information, directly aligned with parliamentary needs.

The second round focused on the challenges faced by research and legislative departments in managing vast amounts of information. The panelists debated how AI could be utilised to streamline information organisation, access, and summarisation, potentially transforming the way these departments operate.

In the third round, the conversation shifted to the future possibilities of AI in parliamentary settings. The speakers discussed innovative platforms and services that could be developed using AI to support Members of Parliament more effectively, and how the role of parliamentary research departments might evolve as AI becomes more integral to their operations.

The session concluded with final reflections from each speaker, emphasising the importance of thoughtfully integrating AI into parliamentary workflows. The discussion underscored the need for a strategic approach that balances the opportunities presented by AI with the necessity of preserving the integrity and trustworthiness of legislative processes. The debate highlighted the ongoing need for collaboration and dialogue among legislative bodies to navigate the evolving role of AI in a responsible and effective manner.