AI as force for advancing human civilisation

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s vision that artificial intelligence should be guided by human wisdom and international consensus is a compelling one. AI has the potential to become much more than a tool for improving productivity or generating economic value. If developed responsibly and used fairly, it could become a powerful force for advancing human civilisation, improving access to education, healthcare and legal services, accelerating scientific discoveries, strengthening food security, increasing agricultural productivity while using fewer resources, reducing the waste of natural resources and helping societies better respond to challenges such as natural disasters and disease.

However, the more difficult question is how realistic it is to achieve this vision in the current global environment. The principle is widely shared: that AI should serve humanity and improve the wellbeing of all. Yet translating this principle into practice will require overcoming significant geopolitical, economic, social and environmental challenges.

 Today, many countries understandably pursue policies based on their own national interests, which do not always align with the broader interests of humanity as a whole. The world is facing increasing polarisation, conflicts, economic uncertainties and social divisions. Even within developed countries, many communities continue to experience inequality and limited access to opportunities. There is therefore a real challenge in ensuring that the benefits of AI do not become concentrated among a small group of countries, corporations or individuals, but are shared more widely. 

 Another challenge is that much of AI development is being driven by large technology companies, whose primary motivations are often linked to competition, investment and commercial returns. While private sector innovation is essential, there is a need to ensure that AI development is guided not only by market forces but also by ethical considerations, social responsibility and the long-term interests of humanity.

 At the same time, AI development itself must not create new challenges or come at the expense of basic human needs, particularly in developing countries such as Sri Lanka. The rapid expansion of data centres required to support AI systems brings significant demands for energy and water. If not managed responsibly, these demands could place additional pressure on natural resources and affect communities that are already vulnerable. The advancement of AI must therefore go hand in hand with sustainable development and ensure that technological progress does not deepen existing inequalities. It is imperative for Sri Lanka to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and energy security when establishing large-scale data centres in the Island. 

 The effectiveness of global institutions in addressing shared challenges also raises important questions. The difficulties the international community has faced in reaching consensus on issues such as climate change demonstrate how challenging global cooperation can be, even when the stakes affect all countries. Building a common framework for AI governance will require stronger trust, meaningful collaboration and a genuine commitment to multilateral solutions. This process must be inclusive and involve all nations, regardless of their level of economic development or technological capability, so that global AI governance reflects diverse perspectives and ensures that the benefits and opportunities of AI are accessible to all. The future direction of such a transformative technology should not be determined only by a small group of advanced economies, but shaped through broad international participation and shared responsibility.  Sri Lanka needs to be proactive in securing her position in such a global initiative.  

At the same time, we should not lose faith in humanity’s ability to work together for the common good. History has shown that when communities and nations face major crises, such as natural disasters, people often come together to support one another beyond borders and differences. Sri Lanka has experienced this on several occasions (e.g. Boxing Day tsunami, Cyclone Ditwah). This spirit of solidarity reflects the potential for human compassion and cooperation, which must continue to guide the development of AI. 

The question before us is whether we can act with foresight today to shape the future we want, or whether we will only respond after problems emerge and the consequences become difficult to reverse. While the gap between vision and reality remains significant, having a shared vision is an essential first step. The challenge is to turn that vision into collective action, so that AI strengthens human capabilities, reduces inequalities and benefits both current and future generations. Sri Lanka must actively pursue its place around the table to ensure AI serves humanity and improve the wellbeing of all.

 

(The author is Professor of Computing, and Dean of Faculy of Computing, Law and Psychology, University of Buckingham)