The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on international development is undeniable. In 2023, AI dominated discussions across industries, and its potential only continues to grow. But while the technology promises to revolutionize various sectors, the pace of adoption in international aid and development is more cautious. Yet, the opportunities AI brings for enhancing global development are profound.
AI is already making significant strides in areas like improving disaster prediction, optimizing energy grids, and even reducing barriers to education. These advancements contribute directly to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering hope to nations striving for social and economic progress.
Governments and AI: Leading the Charge
Countries around the globe are embracing AI strategies. Nations like Brazil, Indonesia, and Rwanda have already begun drafting AI legislation to ensure responsible use of the technology. Brazil, for instance, has created an AI strategy focused on innovation and responsible usage, while Morocco and Mexico are also making strides with similar initiatives.
In the context of international development, AI can be a powerful tool. For example, it can assist in documenting war crimes, improving literacy rates, and even managing grant applications. Despite these promising applications, the international development community has been slow to integrate AI into its core strategies. This hesitation could mean missing out on AI’s potential to address systemic challenges in a more efficient and scalable manner.
Challenges Facing AI in Global Development
The rapid adoption of AI comes with its own set of challenges. Data integrity, privacy, and cybersecurity remain key concerns, especially in developing countries where resources and regulations may be lacking. Moreover, the risk of AI amplifying existing inequalities is real. AI models, especially those trained on biased datasets, may perpetuate global disparities instead of reducing them.
Furthermore, AI has already been misused by bad actors. In 2024, with a record number of elections, AI-generated content—such as deepfakes and misinformation—threatened election integrity worldwide. The potential for AI to undermine democratic processes and fuel distrust among the public is a growing concern.
For instance, in the U.S. and Europe, regulatory frameworks are being established to mitigate AI risks. Without similar efforts in developing nations, these countries may find themselves vulnerable to the harmful effects of unchecked AI growth.
Unlocking AI’s Potential for Good
Despite these challenges, AI remains a critical tool for global development. Its ability to predict civil unrest, assist in humanitarian response, and even help farmers adapt to climate change highlights its wide-ranging applications. But the question remains: Will AI empower the marginalized, or will it consolidate power among the few?
As AI continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that its benefits are equitably distributed. This will require a concerted effort from governments, development organizations, and the private sector to build inclusive AI ecosystems. A key part of this effort will be ensuring that local voices, especially those from marginalized communities, are part of the decision-making process in building AI models and frameworks.
The Path Forward
To fully harness the potential of AI, development organizations must shift from a ‘wait-and-see’ approach to actively shaping AI’s trajectory. This includes building responsible AI governance frameworks, improving local datasets, and investing in computing infrastructure and talent in developing countries.
Moreover, fostering greater inclusion in the AI landscape is crucial. AI must not only address technological challenges but also represent the diverse voices and needs of global communities. By doing so, we can ensure that AI-driven solutions are contextually relevant and sustainable in the long term.
Conclusion
AI has the potential to be a game-changer in international development, but only if it is harnessed responsibly. Without proper governance and oversight, the risks associated with AI—such as privacy violations, bias, and inequality—could outweigh the benefits. The development community has a unique opportunity to embrace AI’s potential while proactively addressing these risks.
As we move forward, it is essential to build robust frameworks that prioritize human rights, inclusivity, and sustainability. Only then can we ensure that AI serves as a force for good, driving progress for all.
For more insights into AI’s impact on industries, see how AI is transforming the textile industry’s supply chain management.