© UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Artificial intelligence is transforming economies and societies, presenting opportunities to advance on sustainable development. However, many developing countries face difficulties in benefiting from these opportunities due to inadequate digital infrastructure, limited data access and the lack of necessary skills. Strategies and policies to leverage artificial intelligence in order to accelerate sustainable development are urgently needed. Developing countries also need to be prepared to address the possible economic and social downsides posed by artificial intelligence. In addition, artificial intelligence needs to be governed in the public interest to ensure that its benefits are distributed equitably, as noted in the Pact for the Future.
Discussions at this round table, drawing on Technology and Innovation Report 2025, will explore national artificial intelligence strategies and global cooperation, to make artificial intelligence accessible and beneficial for all. The discussions will also contribute to achieving related objectives of the Global Digital Compact.
Programme
Opening remarks: Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General, UNCTAD
Panel 1: Artificial intelligence, development paths and capacity-building
Questions
- How can artificial intelligence reshape the development paths of developing countries and what particular challenges and opportunities does it present?
- Which capacity-building initiatives can support the democratization of artificial intelligence and foster inclusive open innovation that promotes the development of local artificial intelligence ecosystems?
Panel 2: Artificial intelligence opportunities and governance
Questions
- Which strategies can developing countries adopt to position themselves to take advantage of artificial intelligence-related opportunities and, in particular, how should industrial and innovation-related policies evolve to effectively respond to the rise of artificial intelligence?
- Which mechanisms can be operationalized to ensure an inclusive and risk-based approach to artificial intelligence governance, balancing innovation with socioeconomic and ethical safeguards?
Moderator: To be determined
Format: Davos-style
