Can the Majority World keep up in the AI race?

Nepal is actively engaging in global discussions on artificial intelligence governance, participating in the inaugural UN Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance (UNGDAI) in Geneva. This dialogue, mandated by the UN General Assembly, serves as an inclusive platform for governments and stakeholders to address pressing AI challenges, covering themes like AI opportunities, bridging AI divides, ensuring trustworthy AI, and protecting human rights.

While Nepal's government and private sector show enthusiasm for AI's benefits and are prioritizing AI regulation through policies like the National AI Policy, the country faces substantial hurdles. Nepal's AI Sector Maturity score is a mere 0.68 out of 100, according to the Government AI Readiness Index 2025. This low score highlights a significant digital and AI divide, with discussions on bridging this gap and ensuring AI's safety and ethical implications often overshadowed.

Experts emphasize that instead of rushing into AI adoption, Nepal should focus on developing its own AI capabilities and infrastructure. Key priorities include establishing a comprehensive data protection ecosystem, building resilient cybersecurity systems, and conducting thorough AI impact assessments. This approach aims to ensure that any AI systems and governance adopted are just, inclusive, and respect human rights, particularly for developing countries with limited agency in global AI policymaking.