Paradigm Initiative calls for Global South role in AI governance dialogue

Paradigm Initiative has called for more inclusive and better-resourced participation in global AI governance discussions.

The organisation presented a statement on 19 March 2026 at the Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance. The statement was delivered by Thobekile Matimbe, Senior Manager for Partnerships and Engagements at Paradigm Initiative.

Paradigm Initiative said global AI governance should not be shaped only by governments, large technology companies, or actors from wealthier regions. It argued that civil society organisations and other stakeholders from the Global South must be involved in setting priorities and shaping governance frameworks.

The Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance is intended to support international discussion on how AI should be governed. For civil society groups, such processes matter because they can influence future rules, standards, funding priorities, and policy approaches to AI.

Paradigm Initiative linked the dialogue to earlier consultations on the Global Digital Compact and the WSIS+20 review process. It said these processes have repeatedly highlighted the need for multistakeholder participation, efforts to bridge digital divides, and rights-respecting AI deployment and oversight.

The organisation welcomed language in the dialogue’s terms of reference encouraging states, private sector actors, financial institutions, foundations, and donors to support participation by stakeholders from developing countries. It said this support should include transparent voluntary contributions and travel assistance.

Paradigm Initiative warned that multistakeholder participation will remain limited unless Global South actors, especially civil society organisations, have the resources needed to take part. It also called for clearer engagement modalities and for Global South stakeholders to be included in agenda-setting.

The statement also stressed that AI governance frameworks should reflect Global South realities. This includes economic, cultural, and social contexts, as well as inequalities in access to digital infrastructure, data, skills, and institutional capacity.

Paradigm Initiative said the dialogue should not focus only on development and innovation. It should also be grounded in human rights. The organisation called for AI deployment that respects, protects, and promotes human rights.

Through the statement, Paradigm Initiative said it would continue advocating for inclusive, accountable, and rights-respecting digital futures for Africa and the wider Global South.