缅北禁地

Background

This fireside chat among well-known researchers and practitioners will discuss how LDCs, with their specific vulnerabilities can harness the benefits of advanced technologies while managing the associated risks.

The Doha Programme of Action recognized that LDCs face significant gaps in STI infrastructure, human and institutional capacity. According to the global innovation index of the 32 least developed countries on the list, 21 are in the bottom quartile. This reflects least developed countries continued lagging in innovation, adoption of new technologies and implementation of policies and approaches for the growth and expansion of STI; due to limited infrastructure, lack of resources (financial and technical), and inadequate investment in education, skills and STI research and development (R&D).

As late latecomers to development, least developed countries have the advantage to choose, pick and utilize the technologies and technical know-how that they need to promote sustainable economic development. However, LDCs also need to manage the risks associated with new technologies, including job displacements, the risk to increase inequalities and gaps with respect to access to technologies. The spread of AI poses risks of increasing discrimination, disinformation, cybersecurity etc. Which can hamper socio-economic development o