Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to become a $4.8 trillion global market by 2033—roughly the size of Germany’s economy. However, unless immediate action is taken, the technology’s benefits could remain concentrated in the hands of a select few, according to a new report by the United Nations.
The Technology and Innovation Report 2025 by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) raises alarms about the growing disparity in the AI landscape. It outlines a roadmap for nations to leverage AI’s potential equitably.
GROWING POWER OF AI: A CONCERN FOR GLOBAL EQUITY
The report reveals that only 100 companies control a significant share of global private investment in AI research. Most of these companies are from the United States and China. They control 40 percent of the total investment. These companies dominate the development landscape. This shows a troubling concentration of power and influence over the technology’s trajectory. Meanwhile, 118 countries, many from the Global South, remain entirely absent from critical global AI governance discussions. This growing imbalance underscores the risks of leaving AI’s development in the hands of a small number of powerful players.
UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan stressed the urgency of stronger international collaboration. She emphasized the need to shift the focus “from technology to people.” Grynspan advocates for the creation of a global AI framework that allows all countries to actively co-create and shape its future. The report highlights the need for a more inclusive and diverse approach to AI governance.
JOBS REVOLUTION: OPPORTUNITY OR THREAT?
AI’s impact on employment is undeniable, with the potential to affect up to 40 percent of global jobs. This transformation presents significant opportunities. These include productivity gains and the creation of new industries. Yet, it also raises serious concerns about automation and job displacement. This is especially true in economies where low-cost labor has been a key competitive advantage.
Nonetheless, the future of work is not entirely bleak. UNCTAD’s experts argue that AI need not solely focus on replacing jobs. Instead, it can serve as a catalyst for innovation, fostering the growth of new industries and empowering workers.
For AI to enhance employment opportunities, rather than diminish them, governments must invest in reskilling and upskilling their workforces. Nations can prepare people for the jobs of the future. This preparation ensures that the rise of AI leads to more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
PREPARING FOR AI: THE THREE KEY LEVERAGE POINTS
To avoid being left behind in the AI revolution, developing countries must focus on infrastructure. UNCTAD identifies this as one of the ‘three key leverage points.’ The other two points are data and skills.
INFRASTRUCTURE: THE BACKBONE OF AI GROWTH
First and foremost, nations need to invest in robust infrastructure, including fast, reliable internet connections and sufficient computing power. These are essential for storing and processing vast amounts of data, which are the foundation of AI systems.
DATA: THE FUEL FOR AI INNOVATION
Second, access to high-quality, diverse datasets is crucial. AI systems are only as effective and equitable as the data they are trained on. Ensuring that these datasets are representative and free from bias is key to the fair development of AI technologies.
SKILLS: EMPOWERING THE WORKFORCE OF TOMORROW
Lastly, education systems must evolve to equip people with the digital literacy and problem-solving skills required to thrive in an AI-driven world. By prioritizing digital education and vocational training, governments can help workers adapt to the evolving job market.
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AI TOGETHER
The challenge of creating an equitable AI future extends beyond national borders. UNCTAD calls for increased international cooperation to ensure that all countries benefit from AI’s advancements.
One recommendation from the report is the establishment of a global shared facility. This facility would provide equitable access to AI tools and computing power for all nations. It especially aims to benefit those in the Global South. This would help bridge the gap between rich and poor countries. It would allow them to harness AI’s potential. They would not be excluded from its benefits.
The report suggests creating a public disclosure framework for AI development. This framework should be similar to existing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. This approach would enhance transparency and accountability in the AI sector. It ensures that companies and governments are held responsible for the social and economic impact of their AI technologies.
HUMAN-CENTERED AI REVOLUTION: MOVING BEYOND TECHNOLOGY
As the report concludes, UNCTAD Secretary-General Grynspan reminds us that technological progress can drive economic growth. However, it alone does not guarantee equitable income distribution or inclusive human development. She argues for a shift in focus—one that places people, rather than technology, at the center of the AI revolution. This will require cooperation, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to a fairer global economy. Only then can AI truly live up to its potential as a tool for universal prosperity.
NAVIGATING THE AI FUTURE
As AI continues to transform the global economy, the need for urgent action has never been more critical. Without decisive steps, the benefits of AI may remain confined to a small group of powerful companies. This can occur in certain countries, exacerbating inequality and leaving many behind. However, with concerted effort and collaboration—at both national and international levels—it is possible to ensure that AI’s rise is inclusive, equitable, and beneficial to all.
By focusing on infrastructure, data, and education, countries can prepare their workforces for the future while fostering innovation and job creation. At the same time, global cooperation will be essential to ensure that no nation is left out of the AI revolution. The future of AI is in our hands, and it is up to us to shape it into a force for good for all of humanity.