IGF 2023 Town Hall #76 Governing AI in Developing Countries: Issues and Challenges

While the IGF Community encourages the use of session formats different from panels, in this case, a panel discussion format is appropriate for the workshop on "Governing AI in Developing Countries: Issues and Challenges." Here are the reasons for selecting a panel discussion.
Expertise and Perspectives: A panel discussion allows for the inclusion of diverse speakers representing policymakers, academics, civil society, and industry representatives. This enables a broader range of expertise and perspectives on the topic, enriching the discussion.

Interactive Exchange: Panel discussions provide an interactive platform where panelists can engage in a dynamic conversation, share their insights, and respond to each other's viewpoints. This format allows for a deeper exploration of the issues and challenges related to governing AI in developing countries.

Audience Engagement: Panel discussions typically include a Q&A session, allowing the audience to actively participate by asking questions and seeking clarification from the panelists. This engagement fosters a collaborative atmosphere and encourages the sharing of different viewpoints and experiences.

Time Efficiency: With limited time available for the session, a panel discussion format allows for efficient sharing of multiple perspectives within the allocated time frame. Each panelist can provide insights on specific aspects of governing AI in developing countries, ensuring a comprehensive discussion.

Objective: The objective of this workshop is to discuss the issues and challenges related to governing artificial intelligence (AI) in developing countries and identify potential solutions that can enable these countries to benefit from AI while minimizing its risks.
Description: AI is transforming various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education, and is increasingly being adopted by developing countries to improve their economic growth and development. However, governing AI presents several challenges, particularly in developing countries that may not have the necessary legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks in place to manage the risks associated with AI. This workshop will bring together policymakers, academics, civil society, and industry representatives to discuss the following topics:

- The challenges of governing AI in developing countries
- The role of stakeholders in developing ethical and responsible AI
- Strategies for building capacity and developing legal and regulatory frameworks for governing AI in developing countries

To ensure active participation and interaction between onsite and online participants, the following measures will be implemented:
a) Hybrid Session Format: The workshop will be designed as a hybrid session, allowing both onsite and online speakers and attendees to participate. This will be achieved by leveraging video conferencing technology that enables seamless communication and collaboration between the two groups.

b) Dedicated Moderator (onsite and online): Two skilled moderators online and onsite will facilitate the discussion and ensure that both onsite and online participants have equal opportunities to contribute. The moderator will manage the flow of the session, coordinate questions, and ensure that all perspectives are heard.
c) Q&A Sessions: Online participants will be encouraged to ask questions or share their comments through a designated Q&A platform or chat feature. The moderator will then incorporate these questions into the discussion, allowing both onsite and online speakers to respond.