Wikipedia Turns to AI to Support Its Volunteer Editors
Wikipedia is embracing generative AI. But, not to write articles. Instead, the AI tools will help human editors improve efficiency.These tools aim to automate routine tasks like translation, formatting, and initial drafts, which often slow down the editing process.
Chris Albon, Wikimedia’s Director of Machine Learning, noted that AI would relieve contributors of tedious work, not override their decisions. He explained that “human agency remains central,” and that machines should only assist where they can meaningfully save time or effort.
The foundation stressed it is not abandoning its community-driven model; instead, AI will make that model more sustainable and scalable.
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Supporting Global Editors Through Language and Mentorship
One key focus of this AI rollout is multilingual expansion. Translation tools will help quickly localize articles for dozens of languages. This could dramatically increase access to Wikipedia’s knowledge in underserved regions where contributors face greater barriers to participation.
Another initiative, “guided mentorship,” will onboard new editors with AI-supported tutorials and feedback, helping them learn Wikipedia’s rules faster.
Rather than replacing expert editors, Wikimedia wants AI to empower more people to join and participate meaningfully in content creation.
That includes using AI to improve discovery tools, giving contributors quicker access to relevant, reliable sources and reducing research time.
Staying True to Core Values in the Age of AI
Wikimedia has set clear boundaries: open-source models, transparency in design, and AI that enhances—not dominates—editorial decisions. Wikipedia’s mission to provide free, reliable knowledge isn’t changing, even as AI companies increasingly rely on its content for training.
To protect its infrastructure from being strained, the foundation is reclaiming value by using AI in ways that serve its community. In an AI-driven era, Wikipedia’s human-centered approach ensures the encyclopedia remains trustworthy, multilingual, and accessible to all.
