Use Of Artificial Intelligence Technology In Local Governments And Examples From Türkiye

Abstract

This study examines the use, adoption, implementation, and impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in local governments in Türkiye. In this study, national strategy reports, municipal activity reports, academic literature, and official public documents published between 2020 and 2025 were evaluated using qualitative document analysis. The study investigated how AI supports operational efficiency, urban transportation, disaster risk management, and citizen participation in Turkish municipalities. The findings indicate that metropolitan municipalities, such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, are actively utilizing AI technologies to optimize resource management, enhance service delivery, and improve decision-making processes. However, the study reveals a significant difference in AI adoption between metropolitan municipalities and smaller municipalities; small-scale local governments are less likely to implement AI applications due to their lack of technical infrastructure, financial resources, and human resources. It was determined that AI has fallen behind. It was also emphasized that ethical issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the protection of digital rights have not been adequately addressed in current practices. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that AI has high potential to transform local government services in Türkiye; however, coordinated strategies and support programs at the national level are necessary for this transformation to be sustainable and inclusive. By emphasizing the importance of infrastructure development, human resource investments, and ethical governance principles, the study provides valuable information for policymakers and academics in the fields of digital transformation and smart governance.