Latin America pushes for AI rules to secure democracy, boost economy

In the quest to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), Latin America is stepping into the arena, with Mexico leading the charge through the National Artificial Intelligence Alliance. Senator Alejandra Lagunes emphasises the need for a balanced approach in crafting regulations that foster economic benefits while mitigating potential harms, such as election disinformation and digital harassment.

“Regulating based on fear can halt innovation and the possibility of levelling the ground between Mexico and other countries from the Global South with the big tech developers in the Global North,” she told Context.

Lagunes envisions Latin America becoming the fourth global bloc in AI regulation, learning from countries like Chile and Brazil, which have already introduced comprehensive AI legislation. With the looming June presidential election in Mexico, concerns about AI-generated disinformation affecting voters prompt the push for timely regulations. The Alliance aims to integrate AI policies into the National Development Plan, emphasising education and technology as potential equalisers.