Whenever the topic of AI comes up in the context of developing countries, it is quickly followed up by the challenges around talent, compute resources, and availability of data. Yet despite these obstacles, AI systems are still being developed in developing countries with great success and in ways that are relevant for their local context. AI advancements being made in resource-constrained environments often bring with them local benefits and can be leveraged by outside stakeholders. Yet challenges faced by those innovators from a responsible AI lens remain.
On September 8, 2023, fellows participated in a discussion on the topic of AI innovation in the global south. In order to seed the discussion, four program participants presented concrete case studies and research findings that uncovered best practices and helped program participants better understand the characteristics that make AI innovation in the global south unique.
Presenters
Summary of the Discussion
Session 4 of the discussion series was focused on the intricate relationship between technology, innovation, and governance. Fellows delved into various dimensions of this complex interplay, offering valuable insights and reflections on the impact, challenges, and potential solutions associated with AI innovation – particularly in resource-scarce environments.
The first presentation focused on AI applications in Latin America – its challenges, opportunities, and geopolitical importance. Allegedly, the primary hindrance to AI development in the region is a mindset issue rather than resource constraints. By shifting focus towards research and development, Latin America could unlock greater resources for innovation, as the region holds a special place in the global AI race due to its extensive data resources arising from diverse ethnicities, languages, and economic potential. For example, the regional approach “Latin 4.0” – championed by on of the fellows – promotes unity and collaboration among LATAM countries, and could well extend internationally, with a proposed US-Latin partnership benefiting both parties.
Furthermore, Chile stands out in Latin America for its AI advancements. Despite its geographical isolation, it is dubbed the “Silicon Valley” of Latin America, attributed to its strong internet infrastructure, stable political environment, and focus on technological investment. Government-led programs such as “Startup Chile” bolster its tech landscape. The country also actively collaborates internationally, enhancing its technological prowess. Tools like “Tilly” or “Ilia” are leading in AI implementation within Latin America and provide insights into AI’s scope, from adoption to governance. As broader AI legislation is underway in Chile, it’s a significant juncture for the nation’s technological path.
Communities like “El Kroe”, for example, enable vibrant interactions among Chile’s AI enthusiasts. These communities, supported by platforms like WhatsApp and Discord, facilitate innovation and learning, with involvement from major tech giants. The education sector is trying to integrate AI comprehensively, offering platforms for children to engage safely. Numerous hackathons and collaborative projects signify Chile’s determination to harness AI for business and societal solutions. Furthermore, innovations such as Theodora, which detects biases in texts, as well as chatbots aiding in government procedures, showcase the country’s progressive approach.
The conversation around AI in LATAM countries, however, also raised questions about data protection. Unlike the EU’s GDPR, Latin America lacks a comprehensive regional data protection framework. Though initial efforts towards interoperability standards are in place, unified data protection remains a long-term goal.
Another notable AI journey lies behind Turkey – positioned uniquely between the global north and south – a country that seeks to blend its rich cultural history with AI advancements. Despite challenges like limited digital infrastructure as well as transparency concerns, Turkey aims to use regional knowledge for sustainable AI practices. Ethical AI use that respects justice and human rights is therefore paramount, demonstrated by projects like wildfire prediction apps. Furthermore, Turkey’s southwestern region shows promise in AI deployment, with data labeling centers boosting not just employment but data processing capabilities. The area’s unique challenges could also see transformative AI solutions ensuring impartial decision-making.
Similarly, Indonesia’s AI landscape reveals promising advancements, too. Startups like “Possii” and “Smart Flux” are leading the charge in natural language processing as well as computer vision. The recent Personal Data Protection Act safeguards ethical AI development by regulating data usage, even though challenges remain.
During and after the respective presentations, a broader, somewhat controversial, debate emerged about choosing technological infrastructure providers. Countries like the Dominican Republic, for example, grapple with aligning to Western values while opting for cost-effective solutions from China. For many, the relationship dynamics between the US, Latin America, and China were key and continue to exemplify the difficult decisions governments of emerging markets have to make. Many don’t want to choose sides, even if great power competition further intensifies. This evolving global scenario underscores the importance of linguistic and cultural AI adaptation, while surveillance concerns and potential misuse of the technology for political purposes remain important, too. Program participants agreed that balancing innovation with ethical implementation is crucial, ensuring that legal regulations don’t hinder but enable technological and economic growth.
This summary captures the extensive discussion and insights shared during the meeting held on September 8, 2023, at 11:00 am EST while maintaining the anonymity of individual participants as per the Chatham House Rule.