Artificial Intelligence in International Development

Written By Tom Feeny
 

JUNE 2019

 

This paper is designed to provide an accessible and concise entry point for actors working in international development who are interested in how Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies can or will impact their work. It draws on a rapid (rather than exhaustive) review of current reports, blogs and commentaries on AI offered by experts around the world and is split into two sections:

  • Part One explores the history of AI, its current complexity and capabilities, and examples of how it is being used within development to support the Sustainable Development Goals.

  • Part Two synthesises contemporary challenges to the deployment of AI in development and outlines some of the key debates that are influencing stakeholders’ approaches, alongside a selection of tools and initiatives that are advancing practice in this space.

We thank all those who have contributed to this document, especially member agencies of the IDIA Working Group on Artificial Intelligence & Development who acted as critical reviewers throughout the process.

Tom Feeny
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