Empowering the South 2030: Shaping AI-Driven Digital Sovereignty at the United Nations

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NishaMengMingLi

Malaysia

Apr 17

Joined Jul 3, 2024

AI is rapidly transforming industries, economies, and societies worldwide. While developed nations continue to push the frontiers of AI innovation, the question remains—how can developing nations harness this technology for sustainable progress? This is precisely what the AI FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES FORUM (AIFOD) 2025 Winter Summit aims to address, and I am honored to have been chosen to attend this prestigious event at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland.

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A Global Stage for AI and Digital Sovereignty

AIFOD is not just a forum—it is a movement dedicated to ensuring that AI serves as an equalizer rather than an amplifier of inequality. This year’s summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to discuss how developing nations can achieve digital sovereignty in an AI-driven future.

For many countries in the Global South, AI represents an opportunity to leapfrog traditional barriers in sectors such as healthcare, education, financial inclusion, and economic development. However, the reality is that these nations often face challenges such as limited AI infrastructure, data dependency on global tech giants, and inadequate regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical AI deployment.

At the summit, discussions will center around:

✔️ AI’s role in economic growth and job creation

✔️ Bridging the digital divide through inclusive technology

✔️ Ethical AI policies that protect sovereignty and human rights

✔️ Case studies of successful AI-driven development models

✔️ Collaboration between governments, private sectors, and academia

A Defining Moment for AI Governance

The United Nations has long been a platform for addressing global challenges, and its involvement in AI governance signals the urgency of ensuring fair, ethical, and inclusive AI development. As nations increasingly rely on AI for critical decision-making, the need for transparent, accountable, and locally adapted AI policies has never been greater.

For developing nations, digital sovereignty means having control over AI data, infrastructure, and policies without being solely dependent on external entities. The summit will explore ways to build indigenous AI capabilities while ensuring global cooperation for equitable AI access.

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Why This Matters to Me

Having worked extensively in branding, marketing, IT solutions, and digital transformation, I have seen firsthand how technology can empower businesses and communities. However, I have also witnessed the disparities in access, resources, and opportunities across different regions. Attending AIFOD is not just an honor—it is a responsibility to contribute to shaping AI’s future for developing nations that are striving to establish their digital independence.

This is an opportunity to engage with thought leaders, exchange insights, foster collaborations, and explore solutions that will define the next decade of AI-driven growth. I look forward to learning, sharing, and advocating for a more inclusive digital future.

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Let’s Connect and Shape the Future Together

If you attended AIFOD 2025, I would love to connect! Let’s exchange ideas and explore ways we can collaborate to drive AI adoption for meaningful impact.

The future of AI must be inclusive, ethical, and empowering—and it starts now. 🚀🌍AI is rapidly transforming industries, economies, and societies worldwide. While developed nations continue to push the frontiers of AI innovation, the question remains—how can developing nations harness this technology for sustainable progress? This is precisely what the AI FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES FORUM (AIFOD) 2025 Winter Summit aims to address, and I am honored to have been chosen to attend this prestigious event at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland.

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