The development of artificial intelligence (AI) today is hindered by limited computational power, largely controlled by concentrated markets dominated by Big Tech. High-performance chips crucial for large AI models are further restricted through vertical integration and a centralized cloud market. As AI's economic importance grows, access to computational resources is increasingly seen as pivotal in shaping socio-economic well-being and political decision-making. This divide is stark between academia and industry, and amplified between the Global South and North, and between public and private sectors.
Geopolitically, advanced computational resources are pivotal, influencing areas like export controls and digital infrastructure independent of Big Tech. To address these challenges, this policy brief proposes that the G20 establish guidelines for governing computational resources. This should include commitments to open compute paradigms, a thorough assessment of environmental impacts, and so on. Such measures aim to ensure every nation can develop robust AI economies that promote economic justice and resilience.
Read the complete policy brief here.