Brazil's presidency of the BRICS, which encompasses major economies such as Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is focusing on enhancing global cooperation and strategically regulating the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI). The Brazilian government has recently unveiled a document outlining the key priorities for their term, coinciding with the discussions held on October 13, 2023.
One of the highlights of Brazil's agenda is addressing the impacts of AI on the global workforce. During meetings earlier this week, members of the BRICS Working Group on Employment emphasized the need for ethical regulations surrounding AI. Maíra Lacerda, who leads this group, expressed optimism about the group's consensus on collective measures, stating, "Todos países planejam fazer algo no âmbito local, mas estamos antevendo que algo está em vista também de forma coletiva envolvendo o bloco," reflecting the unified commitment of BRICS nations to tackle these emergent challenges.
The document outlines six pivotal areas for cooperation, including global health, trade and finance, climate change, governance of AI, reforming the multi-lateral architecture for peace and security, and institutional development. Each aspect has been identified as significant for enhancing the socio-economic development among member nations.
Specifically, the BRICS nations aim to bolster cooperation within global health, with calls for increased investment in research and the production of medicines and vaccines. Financial reforms are on the agenda, particularly concerning the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as well as discussions surrounding financing for climate initiatives.
Concerns were also raised about the ethical use of technology, especially the protection of personal data. The document emphasized ensuring safe, reliable use of AI technologies, which has become increasingly relevant as dependency on such systems has risen globally.
Lacerda's role extends beyond AI; she is also overseeing discussions on educational programs aimed at equipping young and older workers with the necessary skills to thrive amid technological advances. The intent is to create policies to protect those who may be displaced due to transformations in the job market.
The looming discussion on reforming the United Nations structure is anticipated to be central during Brazil's presidency, as the country has been advocating for changes at various international forums. Brazil's government highlighted the need for such reforms as proactive steps against growing geopolitical tensions. This focus is underscored by concerns over unilateral actions and rising extremism, with the government stating, "O recurso insensato ao unilateralismo e a ascensão do extremismo em várias partes do mundo ameaçam a estabilidade global e aprofundam as desigualdades que penalizam as populações mais vulneráveis em diferentes partes do planeta."
Brazil will host the next BRICS summit, scheduled for 2025, where leaders from member states will come together to discuss these pressing issues. The meeting is anticipated to take place in Rio de Janeiro and promises to mark yet another significant event, emphasizing the continual growth of the BRICS group since its inception.
The consistency of this dialogue among member nations indicates a strong desire for collaboration as they navigate complex challenges posed by rapid technological changes and geopolitical strife. Brazil’s initiative to align and structure these discussions through its presidency is not only strategic but also pivotal for the future of the BRICS and global cooperative efforts.