Objective
This proposal presents a novel pipeline framework designed to systematically audit Search Engines (SEs) and chat-based Large Language Models (LLMs), serving as a proof-of-concept tool to support the implementation of Article 40 of the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA). The project addresses two critical goals: 1) to investigate how proprietary algorithms in SEs and LLMs influence electoral processes, and 2) to provide practical guidance to overcome complex DSA implementation challenges.
SEs, such as Google, and LLMs, such as ChatGPT, have become primary channels for accessing information. Yet, both rely on opaque and fast-evolving algorithms that are difficult to audit. This raises significant concerns regarding the fairness, transparency, and neutrality of information they offer, particularly in contexts critical to democracy, such as elections: given their widespread use, even minor algorithmic biases can have significant impacts, influencing voter perceptions and electoral outcomes.
The proposed framework leverages resources developed in two ERC-funded projects, including an advanced bot-based auditing tool. Previous studies conducted during high-stakes events, such as the 2024 EU Parliamentary elections, show systematic biases in search results and LLM responses and it is crucial to better understand the origin and implications of these observations. With FARE_DSA we want to probe this systemic bias by combining our independent auditing tool with the first-ever instances of granted access to platform data, through Article 40.
In collaboration with different stakeholders, we will address key technical and procedural hurdles and deliver actionable insight on DSA implementation. Overall, this proposal seeks to establish a rigorous, reproducible auditing methodology capable of informing policy decisions, enhancing transparency, and bolstering democratic resilience through improved regulation and oversight of algorithm-driven platforms.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- social sciences political sciences political transitions elections
- social sciences political sciences government systems democracy
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
3004 516 COIMBRA
Portugal
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.