The Future Society discussed the intersection of AI and development at ‘The digital revolution and its impact on people : unpacking ‘leave no one behind’ “panel organised by The Partnership in Statistics for Development in the 21st Century (PARIS21) hosted within the OECD’s Statistics and Data Directorate.

“Leave no one behind” is an ambitious pledge set by the international community for the 2030 Agenda. While a laudable vision, ensuring this agenda is achieved in rapidly evolving data-driven societies remains a challenge. Big data, AI, blockchain and other such digital transformation trends are seen by optimists as the holy grail for growth, productivity and a means to reach those currently left out; on the other hand, sceptics are concerned about privacy, security and rising inequalities because of these new disruptive technologies.

The panel was moderated by Eric Anvar, Head of Smart Data Practices and Solutions Division of the OECD Statistics and Data Directorate. R. Buse Çetin from The Future Society discussed unique challenges of the AI revolution for developing countries and the role of statistical capability building alongside Kristofer Hamel from World Data Lab, El Iza Mohamedou, Deputy Manager of PARIS21 and Jen Schradie, Assistant Professor at Observatoire sociologique du changement, Sciences Po.