The AI for Developing Countries Forum, hosted on July 17th at the United Nations Office in Vienna, focused on the theme “Fair AI for a Fair World.” This significant event united experts, policymakers, and innovators from around the world to tackle the critical issues of bridging digital divides and fostering inclusive AI development.
The forum began with a compelling opening address by Tianze Zhang, who underscored the urgent need to harness AI’s potential to achieve global equity. Andrea A. Jacobs then announced the Third AI for Developing Countries Forum, scheduled for 2025, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to this essential conversation. Dr. Wendy O’Brien from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime followed with an insightful presentation on the intersection of human rights and AI, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancement.
Morning sessions continued with a keynote speech by Ana Paula Nishio de Sousa from UNIDO, who discussed AI’s transformative role in industrial development, especially for emerging economies. Ambassador Magdi Ahmed Mofadal Elnour provided an essential perspective on AI’s impact on Less Developed Countries, sparking discussions about the opportunities and challenges these nations face in the AI era. 
Throughout the day, a series of panel discussions explored vital topics such as AI for Inclusive and Sustainable Development, Data Sovereignty in AI, Democratizing AI in Emerging Economies, and AI Governance in the Global South. These sessions brought together diverse viewpoints, fostering robust debates on how to ensure AI benefits all nations equitably.
The afternoon featured insightful presentations on Federated Data Infrastructures by Roland Fadrany and Enterprise Competitiveness in the AI Era by Daniel Ojdanic. These talks provided practical strategies for developing countries to leverage AI while protecting their interests and fostering local innovation.
The forum concluded with an engaging open discussion session, allowing participants to share their unique insights on AI in developing nations. This collaborative dialogue emphasized the collective responsibility to shape an AI future that bridges global divides rather than exacerbating them.
As the first day of the forum concluded, it was evident that the event had successfully brought together diverse perspectives to address the complex challenges of AI development in the Global South. The discussions underscored the need for inclusive strategies, ethical governance, and international cooperation to ensure that AI becomes a force for global equity and sustainable development.
