UN Urges Global Action to Prevent AI From Widening the Digital Divide

UN Urges Global Action to Prevent AI From Widening the Digital DivideJuly 1, 2026Artificial intelligence is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace, but a new United Nations-backed scientific report warns that the benefits of the technology may not be shared equally unless governments invest in digital infrastructure, skills, and responsible governance.According to the report, countries with limited access to advanced computing resources, data infrastructure, and AI expertise risk becoming increasingly dependent on technologies developed elsewhere. While AI adoption continues to accelerate worldwide, many developing economies still face major barriers, including inadequate internet access, limited computing capacity, and shortages of skilled professionals.The panel of international experts recommends that governments strengthen local AI ecosystems by investing in data centres, expanding digital literacy programmes, supporting AI research, and establishing institutions that can evaluate the safety and reliability of advanced AI systems. The report also encourages collaboration among countries to promote common standards for trustworthy AI development.Researchers caution that the rapid concentration of AI development within a small number of countries and technology companies could deepen existing economic and technological inequalities if left unaddressed. They argue that broader participation in AI innovation is essential to ensure the technology contributes to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.Language accessibility remains another significant challenge. Many AI systems perform well in widely spoken languages but offer weaker support for thousands of other languages, limiting access to education, healthcare, and public services for many communities around the world.The report also highlights that billions of people remain without reliable internet connectivity, making it difficult for them to benefit from AI-powered services. Closing this digital gap, the experts say, will require continued investment in broadband infrastructure, affordable connectivity, and digital skills.As governments and businesses continue to adopt AI across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and finance, the report concludes that international cooperation will be critical to ensuring that artificial intelligence promotes inclusive development rather than widening global inequality.