The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a disruptive global game-changer has caused a flurry of excitement as well as apprehension among nations worldwide. As technology increasingly outpaces traditional policies, AI has become a critical aspect of international relations, which could dramatically affect global power dynamics. AI is not only a tool for war, but also has potential to be a force for positive change by enhancing collaboration between nations towards addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, energy transition, and healthcare. In 2021, the US and China have been able to collaborate and equally benefit from the knowledge and technology transfers, setting an example for other nations to follow. However, African countries lag behind in the international AI community, with only few states making any effort to incorporate AI into their policy positions.
Stanford University’s publication “Artificial Intelligence Index” revealed that the US and China had collaborated on more than 9,600 papers and 3,560 papers, respectively, with the US-China collaboration growing fivefold since 2010. This has raised concerns about the US’s foreign policy goals and research priorities in AI, calling into question its relationship with its close ally, the UK. It appears that despite China leading in AI patent filings, the US is benefiting more from access to the Chinese AI knowledge base, and China is able to benefit from access to advanced US-based skills and the US market. It is clear that the US and China have realized the ability to collaborate and mutually benefit in the AI sector.
Similarly, there are numerous instances of countries weaponizing AI in cyberspace, a worrying trend that calls for international cooperation. North Korea, Russia, and the US all have been accused of taking part in cyber espionage and cyberattacks to gain access to sensitive and strategic data, or to interfere with elections. Undoubtedly, AI advancements and AI-fueled cyberweapons are quickly becoming major military capabilities and are key components of the power struggle between countries.
Africa is lagging behind the global trend, with only few countries making an effort to incorporate AI into policy positions. In order to seize the opportunities that AI can provide, African countries must work together to create policies that prioritize AI collaboration on the global stage, invest resources in its development, and back up those efforts with enforceable regulations. By doing so, African states can better compete in the AI race and take part in the international collaboration necessary to tackle global threats with AI.
Edmund Andrews of Stanford University is a senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and a research fellow at the Institute for Human Centered AI (HAI). He has been focused on the intersection of AI, law, ethics, and policy for many years. He is the author of the AI Index report, which highlights the progress and importance of AI collaboration between countries in light of its potential impact on international relations.
