EU Commission President Reportedly Exploring AI Chatbots for Policy Advice

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is reportedly considering the use of artificial intelligence chatbots to assist in navigating complex political and policy challenges, a move that could signal a growing reliance on AI within the highest levels of European governance.

An experiment conducted involved testing three AI chatbots – OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Mistral’s Le Chat, and China’s DeepSeek – by posing 13 questions covering critical issues facing von der Leyen, including relations with the United States and maintaining the stability of her governing coalition. The chatbots were instructed to provide concise, impactful advice, mirroring the style of a top advisor. The aim was to assess which chatbot could offer the most effective counsel.

The questions ranged from strategic approaches to dealing with a potential second term of Donald Trump to methods for preserving the centrist balance within the European Parliament. The exercise highlights the increasing interest in leveraging AI’s capabilities for high-stakes decision-making, though the European Union has been actively developing regulations for artificial intelligence to ensure responsible development and use.

Officials in von der Leyen’s office have not publicly confirmed whether she is currently using any AI chatbots for guidance, but the experiment suggests a willingness to explore the technology’s potential. This exploration comes as AI tools become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, prompting governments worldwide to consider their applications in various sectors, including policymaking.

The results of the chatbot experiment are currently being evaluated to determine which, if any, could provide valuable support to the President and her team in the future.