Bangladesh Eyes Stronger Global AI Role

 Bangladesh should play a more active role in shaping global artificial intelligence (AI) governance while establishing a comprehensive national AI governance framework, speakers said at an online town hall organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held on 27 July, Monday noon.

The discussion brought together diplomats, researchers, academics, technology experts, civil society representatives, international technology companies and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora.

Participants emphasized the need to establish a Bangladesh AI Observatory, strengthen the country's role in global AI diplomacy, invest in AI skills development, promote responsible AI adoption and expand international collaboration.

Dr. Syed Muntasir Mamun, Director General of the International Trade, Investment and Technology (ITIT) Wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said AI governance requires a coordinated national approach rather than the efforts of a single ministry. He noted that Bangladesh has a unique diplomatic opportunity as Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman is set to assume the presidency of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where global AI governance will be a key agenda.

AI researcher Professor Alamgir Hossain proposed the formation of a National AI Council, stressing that innovation and human capital development must progress alongside policymaking.

AHM Bazlur Rahman, Chief Executive of Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC), proposed establishing a Bangladesh AI Observatory to monitor AI's impact on human rights, privacy, misinformation, surveillance and employment through a transparent multi-stakeholder framework.

Canva's Asia-Pacific Head of Education Megan Towns highlighted the importance of AI education for young people and reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting AI literacy, teacher training and localized educational content in Bangladesh.

Technology expert Dr. Philipp Reinisch described AI literacy as the most critical infrastructure of the future, urging Bangladesh to integrate AI awareness, digital safety and algorithmic understanding into education from an early stage.

Speakers concluded that Bangladesh must position itself not only as an AI user but also as a policymaker, innovator and responsible global partner through coordinated efforts involving government, academia, industry and international organizations.

//DBTech/IH/SME//