Greece has announced plans to amend its constitution to require that artificial intelligence serves the interests of humanity, in what would be a landmark move for a country often described as the birthplace of democracy.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis presented the proposed revisions on Thursday, arguing they are essential to protect future generations from the risks posed by AI to democratic governance. The amendment would state: “Artificial intelligence shall serve the freedom of the individual and the prosperity of society, ensuring that risks are mitigated and that the advantages it provides are fully realised.”
The changes are part of a broader constitutional overhaul that also includes expanding postal voting, increasing compulsory education from nine to 11 years, and banning retroactive taxation. The revision process requires approval by two successive parliaments and typically needs cross-party support.
Greece has been an early adopter of AI since emerging from its debt crisis, using the technology for border surveillance and tax administration. A government platform now handles services from divorce applications to sports tickets. Last month, Athens proposed a full social media ban for under-16s, aiming to push the EU toward similar rules.
Government lawmaker Evripidis Stylianidis said the constitutional changes would act as a long-term safeguard on AI use, noting that “the protection and proper use of artificial intelligence touches all human rights in daily life.” Some Greek constitutional experts argue that without legal requirements for AI to serve democracy, major tech platforms could operate beyond public oversight.
