Antigua and Barbuda backs new global AI governance framework

Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed the signing of a landmark international agreement establishing the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), describing the move as an important step toward creating a more coordinated system of global artificial intelligence governance.

The agreement was signed in Shanghai, China, during the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance.

Representing Antigua and Barbuda at the conference was National AI Focal Point and Crown Counsel Andrea Jacobs, who delivered the country’s national statement on AI governance.

Jacobs said Antigua and Barbuda supports WAICO’s alignment with the United Nations Charter and its emphasis on a people-centered approach to artificial intelligence.

“For developing states, such open-source, collaborative platforms are vital to ensure we are active participants in shaping AI’s future, rather than mere passive consumers,” she said.

Jacobs said the country has already begun laying the groundwork for responsible AI through UNESCO’s AI Readiness Assessment and collaboration with the University of the West Indies.

She stressed that national efforts alone are insufficient to address the challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI technologies.

“We need meaningful international partnerships,” Jacobs said, reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s support for the United Nations-led process on global AI governance and a multilateral, science-based framework.

The country also welcomed the preliminary report of the UN Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, saying its evidence-based assessments can help member states develop effective national safeguards while contributing to internationally recognized standards.

Jacobs warned that without a cohesive global governance system, smaller and more vulnerable nations risk digital exclusion, algorithmic bias and exposure to unregulated technologies that they may lack the capacity to manage.

She said effective AI governance is not simply a bureaucratic exercise but an economic and strategic necessity for small island developing states.

According to Jacobs, artificial intelligence has the potential to strengthen disaster preparedness, improve public administration, expand access to healthcare and support climate resilience—areas that are particularly important for Caribbean nations facing the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.

She cautioned, however, that those benefits could remain beyond the reach of developing countries if the global AI landscape remains fragmented.

The conference brought together government officials, technology leaders and international organizations to discuss the future of AI governance and international cooperation on emerging technologies.

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