Bridging the Technology Gap: Global Initiatives to Build an Inclusive and Equitable AI Ecosystem

Jakarta, INTI - Amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, inequality in access and utilization has become an increasingly urgent issue. At the KORIKA AI Innovation Summit 2024, held on August 13, 2024, Nezar Patria, Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Informatics, highlighted the importance of an inclusive approach to AI development to address the phenomenon of the AI Divide.

The AI Divide: A Threat to Global Sustainability

The AI Divide refers to the significant inequality in access, capabilities, and outcomes of AI usage between high-income and low-income countries. Developed nations reap extraordinary benefits from AI, while developing countries often lag far behind. This issue impacts not only on a national scale but also creates injustice at the individual and institutional levels.

Nezar Patria emphasized that low- and middle-income countries are at a disadvantage in this global scenario. Inadequate digital infrastructure, high costs, and a lack of skilled human resources are the main barriers to effectively adopting AI.

Building Inclusive Digital Infrastructure

One of the key points raised by Nezar Patria is the need to improve digital infrastructure in developing countries. Without robust infrastructure, such as stable electricity access, high-speed broadband networks, and reliable data centers, these countries cannot compete in the increasingly technology-driven global economy.

Nezar Patria also emphasized Technology and Knowledge Transfer as a solution to narrow the AI Divide. Developed countries must share their technology and knowledge with developing countries to create a more collaborative environment. This is not just about providing access but also about building local capacity so that developing countries can independently develop and utilize AI technology.

Addressing Skills Gaps and AI Utilization

In addition to infrastructure, another major issue is the lack of skills in developing countries. Without adequate education and training, many people in these countries do not have the ability to effectively use AI. This creates a gap in AI utilization, where only a small portion of the population can benefit from it.

Programs like the Digital Talent Scholarship (DTS) initiated by the Indonesian government aim to address this challenge by enhancing digital talent competencies in AI. However, Nezar Patria underscored that these efforts need to be supported by comprehensive policies and sustainable investments to create an inclusive and equitable AI ecosystem.

Ethics and Trust in AI Development

In addition to inequality in access and skills, ethical issues are also a major concern in AI development. Biased AI algorithms can lead to discriminatory decisions, harming marginalized groups and exacerbating existing social injustices. Therefore, Nezar Patria stressed the importance of developing AI that is safe, ethical, and trustworthy.

To that end, the Indonesian government has issued a Circular on Artificial Intelligence Ethics, which outlines principles of inclusivity, transparency, and humanity in AI usage. This guideline is designed to ensure that AI technology developed in Indonesia adheres to strict ethical standards, so it can benefit all members of society without discrimination.

Concrete Steps Toward Technological Inclusion

Nezar Patria also highlighted regional initiatives, such as the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, which serves as a guide for Southeast Asian countries to design, develop, and implement responsible AI systems. This is part of a collective effort to create an inclusive and sustainable AI ecosystem, where all countries can share the benefits of this technology.

Moreover, strengthening social dialogue on workers' rights and improving job quality in the AI era also became a focal point. Nezar Patria emphasized the importance of involving various stakeholders, including affected communities, in the AI development and implementation process to avoid bias and ensure that this technology truly benefits everyone.

The AI Divide is a global challenge that cannot be ignored. To create an inclusive and equitable technological future, close international cooperation, sustainable investment, and proactive policies are needed. Nezar Patria concluded his speech with a call for all nations to contribute to building an inclusive AI ecosystem, where everyone, regardless of economic background, can enjoy the benefits of technological progress. Only in this way can AI become a force that truly drives global well-being and social justice.