BANGKOK (AP) — The United Nations Development Program has issued a stark warning that artificial intelligence risks creating a modern-day “Great Divergence” mirroring the inequalities of the industrial revolution, unless urgent measures are taken to ensure equitable access to the technology.
According to a comprehensive report released Tuesday, while AI promises unprecedented productivity gains and technological advancement, these benefits are disproportionately flowing to wealthy nations and communities. The analysis draws historical parallels to the 19th century industrialization period when Western nations rapidly modernized while others were left behind in technological progress.
The report emphasizes that the most pressing concern isn’t merely how AI might replace human jobs, but how it will impact vulnerable populations including those struggling with basic access to electricity and internet connectivity, older citizens, and people displaced by conflict or climate disasters. These groups risk becoming “invisible” in data systems that fail to account for their unique circumstances and needs.
Despite these challenges, the UN identifies significant potential for AI to address critical development issues. The technology could revolutionize farming through improved advisory services, enable rapid medical diagnostics including X-ray analysis within seconds, enhance weather forecasting accuracy, and streamline damage assessments in disaster-prone regions.
“As a general-purpose technology, AI systems that analyze poverty, health, and disaster risks enable faster, fairer, and more transparent decisions, turning data into continuous learning and public value,” the report states.
However, the implementation of AI brings substantial environmental and security concerns. Data centers required for AI operations consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, potentially undermining climate goals by increasing carbon emissions. The technology also raises serious ethical questions regarding privacy violations, cybersecurity threats—including AI-powered hacking—and the proliferation of deepfakes that can spread misinformation or facilitate criminal activity.
The regional disparities are particularly stark across Asia-Pacific. While nations like China, Japan, South Korea and Singapore are well-positioned to capitalize on AI advancements, countries including Afghanistan, the Maldives and Myanmar lack the fundamental infrastructure, reliable power, and technical skills needed to participate in the AI revolution. Approximately one-quarter of the Asia-Pacific population remains without internet access, potentially excluding millions from digital payment systems, digital IDs, and educational opportunities essential for economic participation.
The report concludes that AI is becoming “the region’s next essential infrastructure, like power, roads, and schools,” but with both faster benefits and sharper risks. It calls for governments to implement transparent regulations, invest in digital infrastructure and education, ensure fair competition, and establish social protections to prevent vulnerable populations from being “stranded on the wrong side of an AI-driven global economy.”
The ultimate goal, according to the UN, is to democratize access to AI capabilities so that every nation and community can benefit while protecting those most vulnerable to technological disruption.