| PYQ Relevance: Q At the international level, the bilateral relations between most nations are governed by the policy of promoting one’s own national interest without any regard for the interest of other nations. This leads to conflicts and tensions between the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss with specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2015) Q “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020) Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC IAS/2021) |
Mentor comment: The United Nations is emerging as a central forum for establishing global AI standards, facilitating dialogue among diverse national interests, and promoting international cooperation. India has a long-standing strategic role at the UN and is involved in platforms like the G-20 and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). India’s historical legacy of advocating the interests of the Global South, robust engagement at international fora, and lived experiences as a Global South country make it well-positioned to lead these conversations. In today’s Editorial we will have a look at India’s advocacy for a fair and inclusive AI governance framework is also crucial in the context of bipolar dynamics between the U.S. and China, where both countries are driving the AI governance discourse to advance their strategic interests.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The Summit of the Future, taking place on September 22-23, 2024, will be a crucial event for global discussions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance.
- World leaders will gather under the United Nations during this summit to promote the Global Digital Compact (GDC).
What are the main goals of the Global Digital Compact?
It aims to establish a collaborative framework for addressing key digital challenges and promoting an inclusive digital future. Its main goals include:
- Closing Digital Divides: Ensuring equitable access to digital technologies and accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Expanding Inclusion: Enhancing participation and benefits from the digital economy for all individuals.
- Fostering a Safe Digital Space: Creating an open, secure environment that respects and promotes human rights.
- Advancing Data Governance: Promoting responsible and equitable international governance of data.
- Strengthening AI Governance: Enhancing international governance of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to benefit humanity
| The present state of Geopolitical contestation The UN General Assembly has adopted two significant resolutions led by the U.S. and China regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI). U.S.-Led Resolution: Focuses on ‘Safe, Secure and Trustworthy AI for Sustainable Development’ which promotes a harmonized approach to AI governance, encouraging shared ethical principles and transparency standards. This aims to assert U.S. dominance in AI technology. China-Led Resolution: Emphasizes equitable benefits from AI, bridging the digital divide, and fostering an open business environment. This positions China as a key player in global trade and technology standards. |
What are the Challenges?
- Wider gaps vs. Realm of AI: While developed countries have readily available resources, developing countries lack even the basic infrastructure, Internet access, and electricity which are absolute essentials for AI advancements.
- This issue might be overlooked or simplified by developed economies.
- Exacerbating Inequalities: Policies and Frameworks that fail to address the root issues faced by developing countries limit the effectiveness of global AI governance initiatives, and exacerbate existing inequalities.
How can India leverage its historical legacy and advocacy for the Global South?
- Engaging in Multilateral Platforms: Active participation in international forums, such as the United Nations and G-20, allows India to highlight the priorities of the Global South and shape the discourse around digital governance and AI to reflect these interests.
- Building Coalitions: By forming alliances with other Global South nations, India can strengthen its voice in negotiations, ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of developing countries are represented in the GDC discussions.
- Emphasizing Human-Centric Development: India can advocate for a GDC that prioritizes human rights and sustainable development, ensuring that digital policies promote social equity and economic justice for all.
- Addressing Geopolitical Dynamics: With the current geopolitical contestation between major powers like the U.S. and China, India can position itself as a leader advocating for a balanced approach that considers the needs of the Global South, rather than allowing these powers to dominate the narrative.
- Climate Justice Advocacy: India’s experience in international climate negotiations (during UNFCCC and CBDR) highlights its commitment to equity and justice, which can inform its approach to AI governance.
Conclusion:
India must underscore the importance of aligning AI development with democratic values and human rights, advocating for a collaborative approach that involves multiple stakeholders (South countries as well as North countries) to ensure that AI technologies benefit society as a whole while mitigating potential risks.
