Artificial intelligence as an unelected authority: Transparency deficits and public trust in digital policy across the Arab context

The research focuses on the challenges arising from the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sectors of health, education, justice and the finance/administration within the Arab context, specifically Egypt and Bahrain. Both countries are characterized by widespread adoption of AI and its applications, synchronized with a relative delay in establishing binding public policies that ensure governance and transparency. The research examines the factors of transparency and trust in AI systems and their use within an authority that was long considered the exclusive domain of the state, which held a mandate to manage these areas from its citizens. Now, however, AI systems and applications are penetrating this system, forming an alternative, unelected authority that lacks this mandate. The research depends on a qualitative methodology through focused group discussions with specialists in the four sectors in both countries. Results indicate that, despite specialists’ awareness of the potential and risks of using AI, they continue to use it to enhance decision-making efficiency. The research also reveals an aspect of illegitimacy within this framework related to clarity, transparency and ethical responsibility. Furthermore, it shows that individuals’ reliance on AI influences their attitudes towards professionals in the studied sectors. The research raises many questions, presents some experiences in the Arab context and emphasizes on the need for appropriate mechanisms aimed at protecting data and achieving accountability. It also emphasizes the need to follow effective communication strategies to resolve the complexities related to the use of AI in the public service sectors and highlights the importance of achieving a balance between the highly efficient use of AI capabilities and resolving issues related to governance and transparency in this field.