Disinformation, AI and regulation in Ecuador’s 2025 presidential election

Abstract

Introduction: This research analyses Ecuadorians’ perceptions of the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the dissemination of disinformation during the 2025 presidential elections. In light of the growing use of synthetic technologies in political campaigns, it examines the impact of AI on electoral integrity, public trust and the need for regulation. Methodology: Mixed explanatory approach, based on two surveys (n = 201 and n = 64), nine semi-structured interviews with experts after the elections, five pre-election interviews, and sentiment analysis of open-ended responses. Data were collected between November 2024 and July 2025 and analysed using chi-square tests, association coefficients and qualitative coding. Results: Participants perceive that AI-generated disinformation influenced the outcome of the presidential election. There is broad public support for regulating the use of AI in election campaigns, although debates persist about regulatory mechanisms and models. The use of AI did not increase trust in candidates or in the legitimacy of the electoral process. Sentiment analysis reveals widespread concern, mistrust, and fear, along with a demand for transparency, digital literacy, and institutional action. Discussion: AI poses a structural risk to democracy by facilitating information manipulation on a massive scale and with a high degree of realism. Evidence confirms that, without a robust regulatory framework, these technologies will continue to be instruments of political delegitimisation. Conclusion: The solution does not lie in banning AI, but in its ethical and transparent regulation. There is an urgent need for a regulatory framework led by the National Electoral Council that establishes labelling obligations, penalties for disinformation and verification mechanisms. Regulation must be coordinated with media literacy policies and the participation of multiple actors to ensure free, fair and informed elections.