USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: RISKS, ETHICAL CHALLENGES AND IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISMS

Abstract

Introduction. The article examines the features of the use of artificial intelligence in public administration in the context of the digital transformation of the state. Particular attention is paid to the impact of intelligent systems on decision-making processes, as well as to the associated risks and ethical challenges. In the context of digital transformation, artificial intelligence is gradually evolving from a tool for supporting management processes into a structural element of public administration, reshaping decision-making logic, redistributing responsibility, and transforming the interaction between the state and society.

Purpose. The purpose of the study is to analyse the use of artificial intelligence in public administration, with a focus on its impact on decision-making processes and the provision of public services, as well as to identify the associated risks and ethical challenges and to outline approaches to the formation of management mechanisms for its application.

Materials and methods. The study is based on the analysis of scientific publications, analytical reports of international organisations, and selected practical cases of artificial intelligence use in the public sector. To achieve the research objective, a combination of general scientific and specialised methods was employed. The method of theoretical generalisation was used to systematise approaches to the application of intelligent systems in public administration. Methods of analysis and synthesis were applied to identify key directions for their integration into public sector activities. Formalisation was used to structure management processes in which algorithmic solutions are applied. Logical generalisation underpinned the formulation of conclusions and practical recommendations.

Results. The study summarises the main directions of artificial intelligence use in public administration and identifies its role in supporting management processes. It was found that the most common applications of AI include forecasting the outcomes of managerial decisions, automated processing of documents and citizens’ requests, as well as the prioritisation of administrative tasks. The analysis shows that the implementation of intelligent systems contributes to improving the efficiency of public service delivery and the quality of analytical support for decision-making, while at the same time raising issues of transparency, accountability, and maintaining human oversight. According to OECD data (2025), the majority of AI implementation projects in the public sector are focused on the automation of service delivery and the enhancement of decision-making processes. The results obtained allow artificial intelligence to be considered not only as a technological solution, but also as a tool for transforming management practices.

Conclusions. The use of artificial intelligence in public administration contributes to improving decision-making efficiency and the quality of public service delivery; however, it requires careful consideration of ethical risks and the preservation of human oversight. The effectiveness of its implementation largely depends on the integration of technological solutions with institutional and management mechanisms.

Prospects for further research. Further research should focus on the development of mechanisms for assessing the impact of artificial intelligence on managerial decision-making, as well as on the formation of tools to ensure transparency, accountability, and control in its use within public administration. The scientific novelty of this study lies in the systematisation of the main directions of artificial intelligence use in public administration functions, the refinement of ethical principles governing the application of algorithmic systems and the development of a generalised model describing the relationship between the risks and benefits of their implementation.