AI and Its Impact on Developing Countries

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a prominent topic in today’s world, with many of the most cutting-edge developments originating from technology hubs in the West. However, it is important not to overlook the significant role that the Global South plays in driving the advancement of AI. This raises crucial questions about who truly benefits from this technology and what the potential costs might be.

In a recent discussion, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa and Urvashi Aneja, director of the Digital Futures Lab, explored the ways in which AI is already shaping the landscape of the Global South. From the conditions of labour to the very foundations of democracy and the environment, AI is leaving a profound impact on these communities. Ressa and Aneja urged countries in the Global South to move beyond simply attempting to keep pace with the advancements of the North, and instead to critically consider the role that AI should play in their societies.

One of the key issues that the conversation focused on was the disproportionate reliance on the Global South for the labour that powers the AI industry. Many of the mundane, repetitive tasks that underpin the development of AI are outsourced to workers in developing countries, often with little consideration for their working conditions or wellbeing. This dynamic raises important ethical questions about the true costs of AI development and who is bearing the brunt of them.

Beyond the labour implications, the conversation also turned to the ways in which AI is influencing democracy in the Global South. Ressa and Aneja highlighted the potential for AI to be used as a tool for surveillance or even manipulation, as seen in some countries where governments have leveraged AI to quash dissent and silence opposition. The impact on freedom of expression and the ability of citizens to participate in transparent, open democracies is a concern that cannot be ignored.

Finally, the discussion touched on the environmental impact of AI, particularly in the Global South. The rapid growth of the tech industry, coupled with the increasing demand for electronic devices and data processing, has placed a significant strain on the environment. In countries where regulations may be lax, the environmental costs of AI development can be severe. Ressa and Aneja emphasized the need for sustainable and environmentally conscious approaches to AI, particularly in regions that are already grappling with the effects of climate change.

As we navigate the ever-expanding influence of AI, it is crucial to consider the diverse and complex ways in which it impacts different regions of the world. The discussion led by Ressa and Aneja serves as a reminder that the conversation about AI cannot be dominated solely by the voices of the West. Developing countries must have a seat at the table to shape the ethical and equitable development of AI in a way that aligns with their own interests and values.

In conclusion, the evolving landscape of AI and its impact on the Global South is a multifaceted and pressing issue that demands careful consideration. The insights offered by Ressa and Aneja shed light on the urgent need for a more inclusive and ethical approach to AI development, one that prioritises the wellbeing of all individuals and communities, regardless of their geographical location. It is imperative that the global community works together to ensure that the potential benefits of AI are realised without imposing undue harm on the most vulnerable populations.