Law Society report on election integrity challenges
The Law Society’s Centre for Justice and Law Reform has published a report examining emerging risks to electoral integrity and democratic resilience in Ireland.
Safeguarding Irish Election Integrity explores how developments in technology, online communications, and information ecosystems are reshaping the challenges facing electoral systems around the world.
The report considers a range of issues, including:
- Disinformation and misinformation,
- Artificial intelligence,
- Cybersecurity threats,
- Foreign interference, and
- Influence of digital platforms on political discourse.
Established by the Law Society in 2025, the Centre for Justice and Law Reform, led by Law Society Director of Policy Brian Hunt (pictured), seeks to improve the justice system and shape law reform in the public interest.
The Centre conducts evidence-based research, provides a forum for informed discussion, engages with policymakers, and advocates for appropriate reforms.
The publication of Safeguarding Irish Election Integrity forms part of the Centre’s work under the theme of democratic norms and reflects its commitment to supporting evidence-based policy development on issues of public importance.
Drawing on international research and comparative experience, the report argues that election integrity extends beyond the administration of voting itself. It highlights the importance of maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions, ensuring transparency in political campaigning and supporting a resilient information environment.
Threats
The report notes that Ireland enters this period from a position of strength. However, it warns that rapid technological developments and evolving threats require ongoing attention from policymakers, regulators and other stakeholders.
To address these challenges, the report makes recommendations across several areas, including:
- Institutional coordination,
- Preparedness for emerging technological risks,
- Transparency in online political advertising,
- Public education and media literacy initiatives, and
- Ongoing review of legislative and regulatory frameworks.
Commenting on the publication, Law Society President Rosemarie Loftus said: “Ireland’s democratic institutions are among the strongest in the world, but the challenges facing elections continue to evolve.
“New technologies create significant opportunities, but they also introduce new risks that must be understood and addressed.
“This report provides an evidence-based assessment of those risks and offers practical recommendations to help safeguard public confidence in our electoral system and democratic institutions.”