Ready or not, artificial intelligence is transforming our global landscape. The question is: how can we navigate the complex and rapidly evolving challenges and risks of artificial intelligence to arrive at its immense potential and benefit for humanity? The answer, at least in part, is to invest in artificial intelligence research, innovation, and leadership in the Global South.
While these global benefits coming from Southern-led research are impressive, there is a growing conversation across the public sphere about the overall risks inherent in all AI development. There is no denying that AI can amplify inequalities, displace jobs, and threaten democracy through disinformation and increased surveillance. That’s why it is worth looking at not only the outcomes, but the actual approaches to responsible AI underway in the Global South.