Paper Title
REFERENDUM RIGHTS IN THE ERA OF DIGITAL DEMOCRACY: LEGAL PERSPECTIVES AND THE CHALLENGES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Abstract
The integration of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), into the exercise of referendum rights precipitates a profound transformation of direct democratic governance mechanisms. AI-driven systems facilitate precise voter registry verification through biometric identification, safeguard voting results via cryptographic algorithms, enable automated detection of disinformation, and assist in forecasting voter turnout. These technologies possess the potential to minimize subjective human intervention and technical errors, thereby enhancing procedural transparency and the legitimacy of outcomes. Nonetheless, the deployment of AI raises significant legal and institutional risks. Non-transparent algorithmic decision-making processes may infringe upon voter rights and conflict with national and international data protection standards. Moreover, algorithmic bias and manipulation risks could directly impact referendum results, undermining democratic integrity. This article analyzes the normative-legal regulation of AI application within referendum rights under international treaties such as OSCE/ODIHR commitments and national legislation. Taking into account both benefits and risks, the study proposes an institutional framework for the ethical and legally compliant deployment of AI, supported by ethical codes, privacy safeguards, and independent technological audit mechanisms.