By Natalie Alkiviadou
Introduction
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems are increasingly becoming embedded within everyday communication, information access, research, education, and public discourse. Tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and Meta AI are widely used by the public. Crucially, these systems function as intermediaries through which millions of users search for information, summarize material, draft texts, ask political questions, and engage with digital communication environments. However, unlike traditional online platforms, generative AI systems do not simply host or distribute third-party expression. They actively generate, organize, filter, prioritize, and refuse content. In doing so, they increasingly influence not only access to information, but also the practical boundaries of permissible digital expression.
This piece argues that while concerns regarding harmful AI-generated content are legitimate, the moderation of these systems raises equally significant issues pertaining to the right to freedom of expression.
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Natalie Alkiviadou is a Senior Research Fellow at The Future of Free Speech. Her research interests lie in the freedom of expression, the far-right, hate speech, hate crime, and non-discrimination.