During the 2023 performance evaluation of public sector employees, approximately 54,500 employees were initially classified as high performers. Following the use of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool by the Ministry of Interior, this number decreased by approximately 92%, reaching just 4,500 employees.
Under Law 4961/2022, the use of AI systems by public authorities that affect the rights of citizens or employees is permitted only subject to specific conditions and clear transparency safeguards.
However, in this case:
- There appears to be no specific legislative provision authorising the use of AI in the employee evaluation process.
- The required impact assessment has not been made publicly available.
- Essential information regarding the system’s operation has not been disclosed.
- It remains unclear whether public sector employees were informed about how AI influenced their performance evaluations.
In response to these concerns, the Institute for Regulatory Policy Research (INERP), Homo Digitalis, and a public sector employee filed coordinated complaints with the National Transparency Authority, requesting an investigation into whether the Ministry of Interior complied with its legal obligations.
Artificial Intelligence can contribute to improving public administration. However, when it influences decisions affecting thousands of people, transparency, accountability, and respect for fundamental rights are not optional.