As Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms industries and economies worldwide, experts warn that its unchecked implementation could significantly widen the socioeconomic gap between the Global North and South. According to a report by Inter Press Service, while AI is expected to inject trillions of dollars into the global economy by 2030, the distribution of benefits is forecasted to be uneven, favoring regions like North America and China, while leaving many developing nations far behind.
Analysts emphasize that AI-driven, labor-replacing technologies pose a heightened risk to economies in the Global South, where labor remains abundant and cheap, and access to capital-intensive technologies is limited. Without adequate digital infrastructure, financial resources, or skilled labor, many countries in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia may struggle to compete in the global AI race, potentially leading to increased unemployment and economic stagnation.
Despite these challenges, AI also offers immense potential for positive impact in the Global South if deployed with equity and local context in mind. Experts advocate for the development of tailored, region-specific AI systems that can empower rural communities and small-scale industries. For instance, AI-powered tools that use geospatial intelligence can help farmers in drought-prone areas make informed decisions, improve crop yields, and access real-time market data to maximize profits.
Harnessing AI for sustainable development will require strategic investment, international cooperation, and inclusive policy frameworks that ensure emerging technologies benefit all, not just the digitally advanced. Initiatives focused on building digital skills, improving connectivity, and supporting grassroots innovation in underserved regions could help close the digital divide and unlock AI’s potential to drive equitable growth across the globe.
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