Greece proposes constitutional amendment for AI to serve humanity, not the other way around

Greece, a country that has given the world the concept of democracy, now wants to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) is subordinate to human interests. A proposal for a constitutional amendment under way in the Hellenic Parliament states that the development and use of AI must be at the service of social welfare and democratic values, not the other way round.

Why does Greece propose constitutional amendment to AI?

The initiative is amid the accelerated growth of the generational AI and autonomous systems that impact from elections to the labor market. The Greek government argues that, without a clear constitutional basis, the country risks allowing algorithms to make decisions contrary to the public interest. The amendment seeks to establish a fundamental principle: AI must be a tool to expand democracy, not to undermine it. The proposal is inspired by recent debates in the Council of Europe and the European Union, which already discusses the AI Act, the first comprehensive law on technology regulation.

How does the constitutional amendment for AI work in practice?

Although the details are still being finalised, the amendment proposes that any AI system implemented in Greece — either by the government or by private companies — be subject to audits of transparency and respect for human rights. This includes systems used in surveillance, hiring, credit granting and health. The measure also provides for Parliament to set up an independent body to monitor compliance with the rules. Greece does not want to stop innovation, but rather to ensure that the most relevant decisions remain in the hands of people — not algorithmic black boxes. Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, AI is already being used in a less controlled way. Recently, the agent AI has been appointed as a tool that both the Pentagon and cyber criminals are using to gain power. The Greek approach represents a counterpoint to the unrestricted use of technology.

What can the constitutional amendment to AI inspire globally?

Greece is the first country to explicitly include the principle of "humanity first" in its constitution. Experts point out that the measure can influence other countries, especially those who are reviewing their digital laws. The European Union itself can be inspired by the Greek text to strengthen the AI Act. For the technology sector, signaling is clear: regulation is increasingly focused on human values, not just on technical efficiency. Companies that develop AI need to prepare for an environment where ethical compliance will be as important as performance.

Frequently Asked Questions about the constitutional amendment for AI

What exactly does the Greek constitutional amendment propose?

It determines that the development and use of artificial intelligence should serve human interests, respecting democratic values and social welfare, with mechanisms of transparency and independent control.

Can this delay innovation in AI in Greece?

Not necessarily. The intention is to create a predictable regulatory environment that encourages responsible innovation, avoiding abuses that can generate public distrust.

Can other countries take similar measures?

Yeah. The Greek proposal can serve as a model for nations seeking to balance technological advancement with the protection of fundamental rights, especially in Europe and emerging democracies.

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Original source: AP News*