Voice and Access in AI: Global AI Majority Participation in Artificial Intelligence Development and Governance

This white paper explores the critical issue of participation and representation of the Global AI Majority—countries outside the Global North—in the development and governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The document discusses the barriers that prevent equal participation, such as infrastructural limitations, regulatory challenges, and access to education and resources, which are compounded by the dominance of AI technology and policy led by developed nations. The authors propose practical solutions to increase representation and participation from underrepresented countries in the AI space. Recommendations are made for international collaboration, capacity building, and policy reforms that prioritize inclusivity and diversity in AI governance structures. Key areas discussed include the ethical considerations of AI implementation in the Global South, the risks of excluding the majority world from decision-making processes, and the potential to foster innovation by enabling greater access to AI tools and platforms. The paper emphasizes the need for inclusive AI development policies and advocates for structural reforms in global AI governance to ensure that diverse voices contribute to shaping the future of AI technology.