Hanley Urges Voice for Small States in AI Future

BASSETERRE — Acting Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley has called for developing countries, particularly Small Island Developing States, to have a meaningful role in shaping the rapidly evolving global artificial intelligence landscape, warning the United Nations General Assembly on Friday that the growth of A.I. must not open a new divide between rich and poor nations.

Addressing world leaders during the General Debate of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Hanley said: “The next great divide between nations must not be digital.” He said St. Kitts and Nevis intends to be an active participant in A.I. development rather than simply a consumer of technology built elsewhere.

Hanley stressed that access to artificial intelligence goes beyond internet connectivity, and includes computing power, data, research, technical skills, energy, cybersecurity and investment. He said developing countries should have a voice in determining how emerging technologies are developed, governed and used.

He told the Assembly the Federation is already working to build its digital capabilities. He noted that St. Kitts and Nevis is advancing a Whole-of-Government Technology Strategy and strengthening digital identity and digital public services, while supporting regional cooperation through the Caribbean AI Task Force.

Hanley linked those changes to the future of young people, saying the next generation must be prepared for economies increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, climate change and the shift to greener economies.

He pointed to the government’s ASPIRE program, which stands for Achieving Success through Personal Investment, Resources and Education. According to Hanley, more than 4,000 savings accounts have been opened for citizens between the ages of 5 and 18 through the program, alongside financial education in schools. He said the goal is not only to give children money but to give them the knowledge to manage and grow it, and that financial independence should not be limited to people born into wealth.

Hanley said the Federation does not intend merely to adapt to the changes brought by artificial intelligence, but to play a meaningful role in shaping the technological future.