Madam Chair,
The development of Artificial Intelligence is an irreversible global trend.
The many benefits associated with these technological advances have the potential to contribute to the transmission of the cultural, linguistic and historical heritage of Indigenous Peoples, as well as to the preservation of their traditional knowledge.
They could also play a key role in strengthening community governance and fostering economic development, thereby contributing to the full and more expeditious implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which Cuba fully supports.
However, none of these opportunities will be fully realized as long as the current patterns of concentration of decision-making processes in the hands of a few States and sectors of the population persist.
Cuba supports the meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples in the development, implementation and governance of Artificial Intelligence. Only in this way can the transformative potential of this technology promote inclusive growth, social development and innovations that help protect our planet.
The right of Indigenous Peoples to self-determination must also extend to Artificial Intelligence. The collection and use of data relating to these communities must respect the principles of data sovereignty, free, prior and informed consent, as well as their rights to privacy and intellectual property. Artificial Intelligence must not perpetuate colonial patterns.
It is also essential to minimize the environmental impact of these technologies. The enormous demand for energy, water and natural resources required to develop and maintain Artificial Intelligence must not undermine the rights of Indigenous Peoples to the lands, territories and resources which they have traditionally owned, occupied, used or otherwise acquired.
Cuba supports the development and use of Artificial Intelligence that is subject to robust regulation and guided by ethical and inclusive principles, with a focus on social well-being and the promotion of sustainable development.
Thank you