Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an area for triangular partnerships between the EU and LAC

SEGIB launches a study that examines the current state of bi-regional cooperation, government priorities on the AI agenda, and existing capacities in the region.

The aim of the investigation was to analyze the opportunities and challenges of TC on AI, between the EU and LAC, in a global context marked by profound technological transformations and challenges for sustainable development.

Indeed, although Latin-America can use AI to reduce asymmetries in various areas, this field requires strategic frameworks and specific tools to mitigate risks. As for the latter, in addition to technical risks, the report also identifies political, social, and democratic risks which, if not managed, could cause AI to increase inequality, weaken trust in institutions, and undermine progress in inclusion and sustainable development.

Specifically, the following challenges are mentioned in the document: Technological dependence and loss of digital sovereignty; Increasing gaps between countries and vulnerable groups; Regulatory dumping and institutional weakness; Improper surveillance and democratic risks; Labor mismatch. In addition, and in terms of opportunities, the study proposes a roadmap that seeks to move from potential to action, based on 10 points:

1. Data interoperability
2. Algorithmic transparency for the ethical advancement of AI
3. Gradual and experimental regulatory approaches (sandboxing)
4. Regionally relevant benchmarks
5. Digital identity for Latin-American integration
6. Cybersecurity for AI dissemination
7. Shared processing infrastructures
8. Policy design and monitoring for an inclusive labor impact of AI
9. Development of AI skills and continuous workforce training
10. Digital citizenship and critical awareness

One of the report’s conclusions is that the partnership between the EU and LAC particularly offers an alternative to the paradigm of technological domination, as it promotes open source systems, digital rights, and interoperability. If these are combined with ambitious public policies and cooperation mechanisms such as TC, Latin-America could move from being a passive provider to becoming a co-author of AI models adapted to its contexts.

In short, the digital future of LAC will depend on its ability to embrace AI as a public good and not just as a technical tool. TC with the EU offers a way to combine advanced regulatory frameworks with Latin-American diversity and creativity, but this requires strategic decisions and political will.

January 2026

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Source and photos: SEGIB