During the workshop, participants from various sectors, including government ministries, academia, civil society and the private sector, collaborated to refine and validate the RAM. Participants made suggestions for strengthening the RAM through an additional round of national consultations, highlighted the importance of strengthening awareness through public education campaigns, and developed policy recommendations to be included in the final report . Participants also recognized that access and availability of quantitative data was a major challenge.
As AI continues to shape the future of societies around the world, the Caribbean finds itself at a pivotal moment to ensure its development is equitable and ethical. The RAM Validation Workshop is one of many steps being taken to prepare for a future where AI serves as a tool for the public good, supporting sustainable growth and human dignity in the region. The workshop reflected Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive role in promoting the responsible design and development of AI technologies.
The UNESCO Readiness Assessment methodology, developed to help countries implement the 2021 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, provides a robust framework for assessing the country readiness for AI. It serves not only as an assessment tool, but also as a guide for strategic planning, ensuring that AI development is consistent with ethical principles, human rights and the public good. Antigua and Barbuda is one of more than 50 countries worldwide implementing the Readiness Assessment methodology. Through comprehensive stakeholder mapping, consultations, interviews and research analysis, RAM implementation has progressed steadily.
With the continued support of UNESCO, Antigua and Barbuda is in a strong position to advance AI readiness efforts across the region, leading the way for other Caribbean SIDS.
