The AI4PA Digital Innovation Hub, through its partner UNU-EGOV, has launched a new initiative aimed at assessing public literacy, attitudes, and perceptions regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its local applications.
The service is being implemented in collaboration with two northern municipalities: Matosinhos and Maia, with the latter focusing specifically on younger populations.
Many citizens, particularly those in vulnerable communities, may not fully understand how AI is already being integrated into public administration or how it will shape local governance and community life in the near future.
Therefore, the service seeks to evaluate digital literacy levels, public awareness, and trust in AI-related initiatives, while also fostering community engagement on its risks, benefits, and opportunities.
The ongoing study combines two main components: a data-gathering questionnaire, adapted to the local political and administrative context, and Focus Group sessions designed to encourage open discussion and collective reflection about AI’s role in local governance and daily life.
By helping municipalities interpret citizens’ expectations, concerns, and levels of preparedness, the initiative aims to support evidence‑based strategies for AI deployment, that reflect community needs and promote public trust.
The findings of the ongoing assessment are expected to be shared publicly by June of this year, offering municipalities, community groups, and policymakers valuable insights into how citizens understand and respond to AI integration in local governance.
