AI and the Global South Civil Society Engagement Report

This report examines the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Global South regarding artificial intelligence (AI) decision-making and governance. It highlights insights from participants in twelve countries across four continents, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that AI presents to communities in crisis and development contexts. The report outlines three key tensions in AI use: balancing efficiency with effectiveness, addressing the digital divide, and ensuring civil society's voice in AI governance. It emphasizes the importance of including CSOs in all stages of AI decision-making to uphold ethical standards and improve outcomes. The report also discusses pathways for successful CSO inclusion, such as expanding AI literacy, increasing local representation, and strengthening advocacy for contextualized impacts. Recommendations are provided for technology multinational corporations (Tech MNCs), international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and CSOs to foster equitable collaboration and ensure responsible AI development. The report aims to facilitate shared understanding among stakeholders and promote evidence-based decision-making in AI deployment.