Amidst the swift currents of global digital transformation, the narrative around Artificial Intelligence (AI) remains largely dominated by perspectives from the Global North. Conversations on large language models, algorithmic ethics, and AI regulations are frequently steered by countries such as the U.S., the U.K., and China. Yet, a critical question often remains unaddressed: Who shapes and leads AI discourse from the Global South?
In most instances, nations in the Global South—from Indonesia to Kenya—remain consumers of AI rather than architects of its strategic direction. The challenges and complexities faced by these regions, however, are distinct: digital inequalities, limited data literacy, and fragile public service infrastructures. Blindly adopting AI without sensitivity to these contexts risks deepening existing inequities.
The need of the hour is not merely more AI users, but true AI Strategists—thinkers, designers, and integrators who can transform AI into an instrument of justice, efficiency, and digital sovereignty. Critically, these strategists must emerge from within the Global South, championing perspectives from regions historically sidelined in global innovation discourse.
What Defines an AI Strategist from the Global South?
AI Strategists in the Global South navigate complex landscapes marked by inadequate regulations, diverse socio-economic challenges, digital divides, and public mistrust toward governmental institutions. They are more than technocrats or developers; they are architects of thought who grasp the interconnectedness between technology, policy, public communication, and societal dynamics. Specifically, they:
Engage in systemic, proactive thinking rather than reactive responses
Craft narratives and policy positions
Recognize opportunities, risks, and strategic intervention points for AI
Ensure AI empowers communities rather than displacing or controlling them
Their role is vital not only regionally but globally. By offering essential perspectives often overlooked by dominant voices from wealthier nations, these strategists provide insights into managing diverse societal needs, ethical frameworks, and policy considerations that are universally valuable. Their inclusive, context-sensitive AI policies ensure that development is equitable, ethical, and broadly beneficial.
The absence of AI Strategists from the Global South could lead to significant global repercussions. The AI landscape risks becoming increasingly homogenous, disconnected from real-world complexities faced by most of the world’s population. Such a scenario could exacerbate social inequalities, foster conflicts driven by technology-enabled biases, and even pose existential threats through uncontrolled robotic and AI systems operating without sufficient human oversight or ethical governance.
Why Indonesia is Lagging Behind
Despite immense potential—a young population, high internet penetration, and a burgeoning technology startup ecosystem—Indonesia lags in strategic AI adoption. Countries like India, Kenya, and Brazil have surpassed Indonesia by:
Developing AI ecosystems for local languages
Advocating AI-driven public policy
Actively involving civil society in shaping ethical AI frameworks
Several underlying issues contribute to Indonesia’s lagging position:
Fragmented efforts across sectors: Government, academia, industry, civil society, and media remain siloed, hindering the emergence of a cohesive national AI strategy.
Limited data infrastructure and governance: Barriers exist for efficient data sharing, transparency, and innovation.
Lack of localized AI talent development initiatives: Indonesia struggles to cultivate professionals equipped with the interdisciplinary skills required to address complex AI challenges.
Low levels of trust: Public mistrust in governmental institutions slows momentum in adopting AI-driven policies.
Unclear strategic vision: Indonesia currently lacks a clear vision for its positioning within the global AI ecosystem, reducing its leverage in international collaborations.
Addressing these barriers requires immediate strategic steps, such as forming integrated national AI policies, investing in localized talent development, and clearly defining Indonesia’s role and strengths within the global AI narrative.
The Urgency of Building Strategic Networks from the South
Creating AI Strategists from the Global South cannot be a solitary effort. Essential components include:
Collaborative platforms: Think tanks, research centers, and pentahelix networks
Public figures and academics: Actively promoting ethical and strategic reflection on AI
International stages: Validating and amplifying voices from the South to demonstrate global relevance
An ethical and inclusive AI future depends on the active involvement of developing nations. We must shift from passive observers to proactive authors of our own narratives.
Closing Reflection: From Users to System Thinkers
Building AI Strategists from the Global South is not a short-term project; it is a sustained effort combining reflective thinking, bold narratives, and robust ecosystem-building. Technology is merely a tool—its true value lies in who directs it and whom it serves.
Now is the moment for us to begin. From the Global South, for the world.