AI risks sparking a new era of divergence as development gaps between countries widen, UNDP report finds
New York, 2 Dec 2025 – Artificial intelligence (AI) unmanaged could increase inequality between countries by widening divides in economic performance, people’s capabilities, and governance systems, as the starting point is so vastly different, according to a new report from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). UNDP
AI threatens to widen inequality among states: UN
Artificial intelligence risks increasing inequality between developed and developing countries, a United Nations report has warned. Al Jazeera
It warns of the potential for “divergence” between rich and poor states as the impacts of the technology take hold, reversing the effect of decades of declining global inequality. Al Jazeera
AI could increase divide between rich and poor states, UN report warns
“We think that AI is heralding a new era of rising inequality between countries, following years of convergence in the last 50 years,” Philip Schellekens, Chief Economist for UNDP Asia Pacific Regional Bureau, told a Geneva press briefing. Reuters
Mapping AI’s future
“We must collectively design an effective and inclusive governance framework for AI.” The Kathmandu Post
Here in Nepal, the adoption of AI is equally timely. With 42.6 percent of the population aged 16 to 40, the country’s young demographic is well-positioned to embrace AI’s transformative potential. The Kathmandu Post
AI’s impact could worsen gaps between world’s rich and poor, a UN report says
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. Nepal News
“AI is becoming essential for modern life, like electricity, roads, and now the internet, so governments need to invest more in digital infrastructure, education and training, fair competition and social protections,” the report says. Nepal News
Jobs held by women are nearly twice as exposed to automation, and youth employment is already declining in high-AI-exposure roles, especially for those aged 22–25, threatening early-career pathways. In South Asia, women are up to 40% less likely than men to own a smartphone. UNDP
Join the Discussion
- What impact could the UNDP findings have on Nepal’s economy and jobs over the next decade?
- Do you agree with the report’s assessment that unequal AI readiness could reverse decades of development gains?
- What practical steps should Nepali policymakers prioritise to reduce the digital divide (infrastructure, skills, regulation)?
- How can civil society and the private sector in Nepal support inclusive AI adoption that protects vulnerable groups?
- What lessons from other Asia-Pacific countries should Nepal consider when designing AI governance?