UNDP Warns AI Could Deepen Global Inequality

A new United Nations Development Programme assessment has raised concerns that artificial intelligence could widen the divide between wealthy and poorer nations if deliberate policy action is not taken. While AI offers transformative opportunities, the report highlights that benefits may disproportionately accrue to advanced economies, leaving vulnerable populations further behind.

Risks of a New Technological Divide

The UNDP study compares the current moment to the “Great Divergence” of the industrial revolution, when rapid technological progress propelled some nations forward while others stagnated. Without investment in connectivity, skills and reliable power, large sections of the global population risk exclusion from AI-driven growth. Communities affected by conflict, ageing populations and those displaced by disasters face particular vulnerabilities, especially as they remain under-represented in datasets that shape AI systems.

Potential for Inclusive Development if Gaps Are Addressed

The report explains that AI, as a general-purpose technology, can accelerate productivity and support late-developing regions. The potential spans precision agriculture, rapid medical diagnostics, real-time disaster assessments and improved public-sector decision-making. Such applications could significantly benefit rural and disaster-prone areas by enhancing service delivery and reducing response delays.

Environmental, Ethical and Security Challenges

Concerns remain even in richer countries, where AI growth is linked to increasing demand for electricity and water from data centres. Higher energy consumption may impede emissions reduction targets and raise health-related risks. Ethical issues include privacy breaches, opaque algorithms, deepfakes and AI-enabled cyberattacks. These risks underline the need for transparency, cybersecurity investment and robust regulation to ensure accountable use of emerging technologies.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The UNDP report highlights AI as a potential driver of widening global inequality.
• About 25% of the Asia-Pacific region still lacks internet access.
• Environmental concerns include rising power and water use by data centres.
• AI can support sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and disaster management.

Regional Disparities and Call for Stronger Governance

The report notes that countries such as China, Japan, South Korea and Singapore are positioned to benefit from AI advances, while places like Afghanistan, the Maldives and Myanmar lack essential infrastructure. Inequalities within nations also risk leaving communities isolated from digital progress. The UNDP urges governments to invest in digital infrastructure, education, fair competition and social protection to ensure AI becomes an inclusive driver of development rather than a catalyst for deeper global divides.