Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector: The Role of the Court of Auditors in Governance and Oversight with Ethics and Responsibility

In her keynote, Helena Machado addressed the ethical implications of using digital tools, particularly Artificial Intelligence, in public administration. She highlighted the risks posed by automated decision-making systems when used without proper oversight, especially in contexts affecting citizens’ rights and access to services.

Drawing on real-life examples, Machado presented cases where the use of AI led to discriminatory or harmful outcomes, illustrating the urgent need for ethical safeguards. She proposed concrete measures for the Tribunal de Contas to consider in future audit processes—ensuring that digital tools used by public institutions are transparent, fair, and accountable.

Her intervention underscored the growing importance of aligning innovation with integrity, especially when technology is deployed in sensitive areas of governance and public welfare.