Washington, D.C. – The Stimson Center, in collaboration with Microsoft, is pleased to unveil the strategic insights from the inaugural year of the Global Perspectives: Responsible AI Fellowship. These insights highlight current challenges and propose new ideas to maximize the benefits and mitigate the risks of artificial intelligence (AI), especially in the Global South.
The fellowship, initiated in 2023 by Stimson’s Strategic Foresight Hub and Microsoft’s Office of Responsible AI, brings together a dynamic group of fifteen fellows from a range of countries, including Chile, Tajikistan, India, the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, Kenya, Indonesia, Serbia, Mexico, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Turkey, and Kyrgyzstan.
Throughout the program, these fellows have engaged in meaningful discussions to share insights from their respective contexts, exchange ideas, and engage with an expert community committed to responsible AI development. Their collaboration focused on developing ways to promote AI efforts that are inclusive and consider the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the Global South.
The first part of the newly released Microsoft Unlocked series includes three stories from AI fellows hailing from Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, and the Dominican Republic.
“As we stand on the brink of a major technological transformation, it is more important than ever to ensure that the development of AI is inclusive and benefits the global majority,” said Natasha Crampton, Chief Responsible AI Officer at Microsoft. “The insights and contributions from the fellows have been invaluable, informing our approach to responsible AI development here at Microsoft.”
Brian Finlay, Stimson Center President and CEO, said, “Artificial intelligence holds unparalleled opportunities for progress across all facets of our lives. However, unlocking its full potential demands a united commitment to shaping its development, guided by a profound understanding of the diverse social, economic, and political landscapes that this technology will inevitably touch. Our partnership with Microsoft and the unwavering dedication of our fellows have been instrumental in advancing this cause. Kudos to Microsoft and to our team here at Stimson for leading this essential global dialogue.”
The Global Perspectives: Responsible AI Fellowship is designed to convene a diverse group of stakeholders to examine AI applications and evaluate their impacts in developing countries. By prioritizing inclusivity and responsible innovation, the project partners aim to foster a future where AI technologies contribute to vibrant and empowered communities worldwide. Learn more about the fellowship on Stimson’s Website and read the fellow’s stories: https://unlocked.microsoft.com/responsible-ai/.
About the Stimson Center
The Stimson Center promotes international security and shared prosperity through applied research and independent analysis, global engagement, and policy innovation.
For three decades, Stimson has been a leading voice on urgent global issues. Founded in the twilight years of the Cold War, the Stimson Center pioneered practical new steps toward stability and security in an uncertain world. Today, as changes in power and technology usher in a challenging new era, Stimson is at the forefront: Engaging new voices, generating innovative ideas and analysis, and building solutions to promote international security, prosperity, and justice.
More at www.stimson.org.
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