In the ‘Bottom-up AI and the Right to be Humanly Imperfect’ session at IGF 2023, Jovan Kurbalija, director of Diplo, emphasised the need for nuanced technological understanding, particularly in education, culture, governance, and ethics. To learn more about this nuanced understanding, visit Diplo’s page Humanism in AI (humAInism). 

Kurbalija introduced Diplo’s hybrid system, which combines AI with human intelligence in reporting, showcasing its potential to foster dynamic learning environments and stimulate intellectual engagement. He also proposed a bottom-up AI approach that respects the diverse cultural traditions and practices of the world, stressing the need for high-quality data in developing open-source AI models.

However, Kurbalija also cautioned against the commodification of knowledge and emphasised the importance of transparency and explainability in AI applications, particularly in countering disinformation. He highlighted concerns about the dominance of larger corporations in AI governance and the lack of initiatives to leverage AI to preserve cultural diversity, including preserving the rights of persons with disabilities.

Diplo’s Director of Knowledge, Sorina Teleanu, highlighted the positive aspects of AI in supporting complex decision-making procedures and fostering critical thinking within educational environments. She stressed the effectiveness of AI in enhancing decision-making and negotiation, as demonstrated in the Global Digital Compact simulation. AI’s role in stimulating critical thinking and understanding intricate policy matters was underscored, highlighting its potential to shape quality education and nurture innovation.

The session also addressed the role of AI in education, decision-making, and diplomacy, underscoring its potential to enhance critical thinking and innovation. Yet, AI’s limitations were also acknowledged, emphasising the need for careful and critical application. The challenges faced by smaller and developing nations in digital governance and diplomacy were discussed, highlighting the potential of AI in supporting these countries.

While AI’s significance in foreign affairs and cultural preservation was recognised, concerns about transparency, accountability, and anthropomorphising in AI systems were raised. The audience contributions included discussions on digital literacy, the economic impact of automation, the potential benefits of open-source AI, and the preservation of local cultures using AI. Participants called for more inclusive and adaptable AI, tech literacy programmes, and active involvement in decision-making to strike a balance between technological advancement and cultural preservation.

The session shed light on the multifaceted impacts of AI on society, urging for inclusive and ethical AI development while highlighting concerns about transparency, accountability, and the preservation of cultural heritage, individual rights, and the rights of persons with disabilities.