#BTColumn – AI Disruption in the Caribbean: Threats, Opportunities, Action Plans

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

By Steven Williams

Since humanity discovered fire, marking the foundational building block of modern technology, we have embarked on a technological journey spanning centuries, culminating in today’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution. I frequently discuss the current state of AI and its implications for Barbados and the wider Caribbean region. However, my deep concern extends beyond its mere existence to the looming existential crisis it poses for a region increasingly lagging in the digital economic landscape. As a friend rightly pointed out, how can the region tackle AI’s implications when it has yet to master the basics of the Internet economy? Her assessment is spot-on, adding complexity to the task of writing this article. Even more alarming is our lack of national dialogue on this issue, which is crucial for shaping policy.

Barbados is especially susceptible to the disruptive impact of AI due to its reliance on service-based or knowledge sectors where AI currently excels. There have been widely publicised instances of AI achieving grade A or better scores on medical board exams and Bar exams. Additionally, advancements in image and video generation enable individuals to produce graphic artist-quality imagery or create full-text-to-video outputs in mere seconds with simple instructions to the AI. Such advancements pose the threat of job losses in our already vulnerable economy.

This reality isn’t years away for developed nations like the US and those within Europe; it’s what they are currently facing. For instance, UPS, a global leader in parcel delivery and logistics, has announced plans to lay off 12 000 jobs by the first quarter of 2024. Even more recently, famous Hollywood mogul Tyler Perry halted production on the $800 million expansion of his Atlanta studio – which was years in the making and would have added a dozen soundstages to the 330-acre property — all due to AI.

On August 14, 2023, IBM announced its intention to replace nearly 8 000 jobs with AI, following a hiring pause declared by CEO Arvind Krishna in May. This move underscores the company’s significant shift towards AI technology and its impact on knowledge-based jobs.

The AI crisis hasn’t been overlooked by the rapidly advancing state of the United Arab Emirates. In 2017, the UAE appointed the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence. This decision was part of the country’s broader strategy to become a global leader in AI by 2031. They viewed AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity wrapped in a challenge they must proactively address.

The UAE’s ambition to position itself as a global leader in AI by 2031 is underpinned by several key initiatives and principles. Firstly, the establishment of the position of Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence marks a significant commitment by the UAE to drive forward AI technologies, setting a precedent as the first country to appoint such a minister. Complementing this move is the National AI Strategy, a comprehensive roadmap outlining the nation’s objectives, priorities, and action plans for AI development.

Moreover, substantial investments in AI research and development underscore the government’s dedication to fostering innovation in this field, with funding directed towards academic institutions, startups, and research centres. In tandem, the UAE is actively working to establish robust regulatory frameworks for AI, ensuring ethical deployment and adherence to best practices while nurturing an environment conducive to innovation. Furthermore, the integration of AI across various sectors – ranging from healthcare and transportation to education and government services – is a cornerstone of the UAE’s strategy, aimed at boosting efficiency, productivity, and service quality.

The UAE’s proactive approach to AI development involves investing in talent through educational programmes and attracting global expertise. Their international collaboration aims to share knowledge and advance AI technologies, forming a multifaceted strategy for global leadership by 2031.

In contrast, the Caribbean region, with the exception of perhaps Guyana, lacks the resources and urgency to address AI’s impact. While I’m sensitive to the region’s economic realities, the focus remains solely and continuously on traditional sectors like agriculture and tourism. However, the looming AI revolution demands attention. Unlike the Internet, which created jobs, AI poses a risk of job displacement across various industries.

If I were Prime Minister today, I would advocate for the creation of a division within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) focused on AI’s impact on the region. Secondly, I would establish a think tank based on the social partnership model, as this crisis affects unions and stakeholders. Thirdly, I would mandate the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to seek out like-minded nations and lobby for policies addressing the likely impact on small developing states.

Finally, any political party seeking government in the next election without a significant AI component in their manifesto risks making their policies irrelevant. This crisis is not 20 years away; indications suggest it’s less than 10. Our
people cannot afford to wait for our leaders to someday understand and address it. The looming AI crisis demands a response now.

Steven Williams is the executive director of Sunisle Technology Solutions and the principal consultant at Data Privacy and Management Advisory Services. He is a former IT advisor to the Government’s Law Review Commission, focusing on the draft Cybercrime bill. He holds an MBA from the University of Durham and is certified as a chief information security officer by the EC Council and as a data protection officer by the Professional Evaluation and Certification Board (PECB). Steven can be reached at: Mobile: 246-233-0090 Email: steven@dataprivacy.bb