AI and the Global South: Making AI more ethical and effective through inclusive participation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating rapidly but decision-making over its development and governance is not equally shared with communities in the Global South. Addressing this imbalance is urgent and critical to ensure that AI is both ethical and effective. How can we ensure more inclusive and responsible AI so that diverse harms can be foreseen and mitigated, and its benefits equitably enjoyed around the world?

New research identifies opportunities for change

New research by CARE International, in collaboration with Accenture, amplifies Global South voices from 12 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South America. In 'AI and the Global South: Exploring the Role of Civil Society in AI Decision-Making' participants share diverse perceptions of AI's opportunities, risks and gaps.

Exploring how to achieve effective inclusion in decision-making related to AI, the research examines the role of Global South-based civil society across the AI lifecycle and AI governance. First-hand insights from civil society organisations (CSOs) are supplemented by those of stakeholders in multinational technology companies and international aid organisations.

Four pathways to increase participation and equitable inclusion

The research insights span four pathways for greater Global South civil society participation and inclusion, with recommendations for diverse stakeholders:

• Expanding AI literacy and cross-sectoral knowledge sharing.
• Increasing local decision making and representation across the AI lifecycle.
• Strengthening advocacy on the contextualised impacts and desired outcomes of AI.
• Improved digital infrastructure and equitable data governance.

The way forward

To avoid risks and realise the potential of AI while ensuring its benefits are enjoyed by the greatest number of people, a reimagining of AI development and governance is necessary and possible.

With thanks to all research participants, we hope this report and its recommendations serve as a catalyst for further efforts, knowledge-sharing, and diverse stakeholders coming together.

For more information, please contact Suzy Madigan.