Hannah Blythyn MS has raised concerns in the Senedd about the growing threat posed by deepfake videos and AI-generated misinformation ahead of this year’s Senedd election.

During a topical question to the Welsh Government, the Delyn MS warned that the technology poses a risk not only to individuals but also to the integrity of Wales’ devolved democracy.

Hannah Blythyn said recent reporting had highlighted how artificial intelligence is already being used to create misleading political content online.

Speaking in the Senedd chamber, Hannah Blythyn said:

“I've raised previously the question on the use of so-called deepfakes on well-known social media platforms, particularly in respect of the fake sexualisation of girls and women, and called it out for what it is, technology-facilitated violence against women and girls.”

A recent BBC article has set out the very real threat to our devolved democracy from overseas content farmers using artificial intelligence to create social media posts about UK politics.

The same article states it uncovered examples of AI-generated videos falsely showing Welsh politicians in compromising situations. The Delyn MS warned that even when such material is labelled as fake or satire, the harm remains.

Hannah Blythyn added:

“Just because whoever is sharing the image is stating that it's fake or it's clearly satirical, it doesn't make it okay. It's still as equally abhorrent and absolutely unacceptable. My belief is that sharing such things should make you just as culpable as creating them in the first place.”

Responding to the question, the Welsh Government said it is working with partners across the UK to safeguard the integrity of the election.

The Welsh Government spokesperson, Julie James MS, said in Siambr:

“Media regulation is reserved, but the Welsh Government is working closely with the UK Government, the Electoral Commission, the police and other partners to safeguard the integrity and security of the Senedd election, and with civil society and the Electoral Management Board to improve the supply of credible information to voters.

“I think we can all agree that the way that high-quality deepfake materials can be easily created and disseminated is a real worry for us all, especially those of us who care about democracy and truthful competition of ideas and policies.”

The Welsh Government also confirmed it is working closely with the Electoral Commission and other partners to prepare for the elections in May, including supporting returning officers and providing security briefings to candidates and political parties.

Hannah Blythyn said tackling the issue will require cooperation across governments and institutions, but stressed the importance of continued work in Wales to protect democratic processes and those involved in public life.