5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

In the contemporary landscape, the term "Global South" has emerged as a powerful identifier for regions previously labelled as the "third world." Historically, the narrative of the world has been dominated by the West, shaping consensus and validating authority. However, the rise of independent and indigenous media platforms has ushered in a new era, where communities from the Global South are reclaiming their narratives, projecting their identities, cultures, and addressing local issues. This localization of development definitions marks a significant assertion of autonomy and self-representation.

Yet, amidst this narrative reclamation, there looms a concern: the transformative impact of AI on societies. With two-thirds of the global population residing in the Global South, comprising a significant portion of the malnourished, deprived, and impoverished segments, questions arise about the preparedness of these regions for the impending AI-driven shift. As automation threatens traditional job markets, particularly in countries yet to industrialize or integrate fully into formal economies, the imperative for AI-based job creation becomes paramount. Governments in the Global South must proactively strategize to mitigate the socioeconomic disruptions AI may inflict, ensuring equitable access to technological opportunities. Moreover, the discourse extends to the realm of policy, emphasizing the necessity to address AI bias to prevent discrimination based on gender, race, or culture. Lack of preparedness in this regard could exacerbate existing inequalities and pose formidable challenges for the Global South.