United Nations Says AI's Impact Could Worsen Gaps Between World's Rich and Poor

The authors of the report are urging that countries adopt a 'people first' approach in adopting AI.

Associated Press

Dec 2, 2025 — 3 min read

Photo of the Chat GPT app icon on an iPhone by Kiichiro Sato/AP

BANGKOK, Dec. 2, 2025 (AP) — Behind the hoopla over the promise of artificial intelligence lay difficult realities, including how such technology might affect people already disadvantaged in a data-driven world.

A new report by the United Nations Development Program notes most of the gains from AI are likely to be reaped by wealthy nations unless steps are taken to use its power to help close gaps in access to basic needs, as well as such advanced know-how.

The report released Tuesday likens the situation to the “Great Divergence” of the industrial revolution, when many Western countries saw rapid modernization while others fell behind.

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AI United Nations UNDP Michael Muthukrishna Philip Schellekens

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