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Who Owns AI? Rich and Poor Nations Clash at UN Over Control, Is Humanity Losing Grip?
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News18•27-09-2026, 10:47
Who Owns AI? Rich and Poor Nations Clash at UN Over Control, Is Humanity Losing Grip?
- •Many UN countries expressed concern that control over crucial technologies like AI should not remain solely with a few nations, governments, or large corporations.
- •India supported every country's right to develop its own AI models; External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called AI a "game-changing force" but warned against its misuse.
- •Malaysia cautioned against the Global South becoming mere data center locations while major AI decisions are made elsewhere, advocating for equal partnership.
- •Germany raised concerns about AI ownership concentration, noting most AI patents are held by companies in only two major countries, urging global responsibility.
- •Belize's Prime Minister John Briceño warned that without proper AI rules, inequality could increase, essential systems endangered, and developing nations become dependent on external technologies.
Key Questions Answered
Developing nations warned that the Global South risks being reduced to mere locations for data centers and markets for technology, while major AI decisions and ownership remain concentrated in the hands of a few wealthy countries and private companies.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that AI can empower people and drive economic prosperity, while asserting that every country should have the freedom to develop its own AI models based on national priorities.
The United Nations adopted the Global Digital Compact to increase international cooperation in AI, reduce digital inequality, and promote safe, human-centered technology, though governments are still working on enforceable rules.
