UNDP Report Warns AI May Intensify Global Inequality

UNDP Warns AI Could Deepen Global Inequality

A recent assessment by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has cautioned that artificial intelligence could significantly widen the gap between developed and developing nations if urgent and inclusive policy measures are not adopted. While AI offers extraordinary potential for economic transformation, the report stresses that its benefits may remain concentrated in advanced economies, leaving already vulnerable populations at greater risk of exclusion.

Growing Fears of a New Technological Divide

UNDP compares the emerging AI era to the Great Divergence of the industrial revolution, when rapid technological adoption enabled a few nations to surge ahead while others lagged for generations. Today, lack of reliable electricity, digital connectivity, and technical skills may prevent large segments of the global population from participating in an AI-driven economy. Conflict-affected regions, ageing populations and communities displaced by climate events are particularly at risk since they remain underrepresented in global datasets shaping AI models.

Opportunities for Inclusive Growth

Despite these challenges, the report highlights that AI still has strong potential to support equitable development—provided structural gaps are addressed. Innovations in precision agriculture , telemedicine , disaster early warning systems and public administration can improve services in remote and underserved regions. Late-developing nations could harness these tools to boost productivity and strengthen climate resilience.

Environmental, Ethical and Security Issues

Even in advanced economies, AI poses serious sustainability and governance concerns. Expanding data centres require increasing amounts of power and water , complicating climate targets. Ethical issues range from privacy violations and bias in algorithms to deepfakes and AI-facilitated cyberattacks. The report urges transparent regulation, improved cybersecurity and responsible data practices.

Exam Oriented Facts

• UNDP warns AI may deepen global inequality without proactive policies.

• 25% of Asia-Pacific still lacks internet access.

• Data centres raise concerns over rising electricity and water use .

• AI applications include agriculture, healthcare, governance and disaster response.