–Minister Todd says

WITH the aim of navigating the intricate nexus of technological advancement and democratic governance, Guyana is working to create a legislative environment to manage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digitisation.

This is according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mr. Hugh Todd, who was at the time addressing the Ministerial Conference which followed the opening of the Third Summit for Democracy in Seoul, Republic of Korea.

“Guyana recognises the transformative potential of AI and digital technology in enhancing the efficacy and efficiency of our democratic institutions… My government is working to create a legislative environment to manage AI and digitisation,” Minister Todd said.

He pointed out that this is in keeping with the vision of the President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, who had said that artificial intelligence and digitalisation are critical to competitiveness and sustainability.

In Guyana, AI is a topic of growing importance, with various initiatives and projects underway in the country.
Artificial intelligence is being considered for environmental governance in Guyana, with a focus on water management. The use of AI tools like ChatGPT and Big Data can offer benefits such as improved environmental impact monitoring and decision-making.

The Competition and Consumer Affairs body in Guyana recently launched an AI agent, indicating a growing interest in leveraging AI for consumer-related services.

Additionally, a Guyanese AI system was launched to aid diaspora engagements, showcasing the diverse applications of AI in different sectors. TrueSelph, a pioneering AI project in Guyana, has also gained attention for its innovative approach driven by AI.

While policymakers are working on laws to regularise AI, Todd pointed out that the University of Guyana has also drafted an AI education policy of its own.
Acknowledging the dual nature of AI’s influence on democracies, Minister Todd stressed the importance of balancing opportunities with challenges.

“AI exerts a profound influence on democracies, offering both challenges and opportunities, particularly for small states like Guyana,” he said, adding, “We are equally cognisant of the risks and pitfalls associated with its rapid proliferation.”
He, however, said that the move towards legislation reflects Guyana’s commitment to addressing the multifaceted implications of AI and digital technology.

“The integration of AI into governmental decision-making processes also poses challenges related to accountability, transparency, and the potential for bias in automated decision-making,” Minister Todd outlined, citing concerns raised by experts in the field.

Additionally, Guyana’s efforts align with global trends and initiatives aimed at harnessing the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks.

Minister Todd further revealed that in 2023, the AI Readiness Index assessed 193 governments, with Latin America and the Caribbean ranking sixth out of nine regions in which Guyana scored 36.85, indicating a need to bolster its capacity in dealing with the rapid advancement of AI.

In underscoring the urgency for proactive measures, he added that the region appears to be “lagging in innovation capacity”, a dimension which, he said, is critical for technology advancement.

“As democracies, we will have to come together united to ensure that we can confront not only the challenges, but united as one to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence,” Minister Todd urged.

He highlighted that the forthcoming legislative framework underscores Guyana’s proactive approach to fostering collaboration, and safeguarding democratic values in the digital age.

“This is not only about self-interests; this speaks to global governance. And as democracies, we will have to come together united to ensure that we can confront not only the challenges, but united as one to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence,” he said.
This year’s Summit for Democracy is being held under the theme: AI/Digital Technology and Democracy.