By Alejandra Garcia on February 3, 2025
The Bolivarian Alternative for the Peoples of the Americas (ALBA-TCP) announced today an ambitious project to develop artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to benefit its member nations. This initiative comes as a response to the challenges faced by progressive governments in the digital era, where AI has become a powerful tool that can be used for both progress and manipulation. The project seeks to create a Center for Technology, Science and Innovation that will allow ALBA countries to develop in the field of AI and social networks, while promoting an ethical and responsible perspective for the benefit of their peoples.
Progressive governments and countries, particularly those within the ALBA-TCP alliance, face persistent and escalating attacks on the global stage. The rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, have provided new means for unconventional warfare. These cutting-edge tools are being exploited to fuel genocide, spread slander, and manipulate information, creating a complex and perilous environment for nations striving to uphold their sovereignty and pursue progressive agendas.
In this context, the global superpowers—holders of the most advanced technologies—have gained unprecedented leverage. They are able to wield these tools against any nation they deem a threat to their geopolitical dominance. A striking example of this power is the manipulation of public perception through strategically placed narratives on social media. Leveraging sophisticated algorithms, these narratives can trigger a cascade effect, distorting the collective understanding of reality within a country, potentially leading to social unrest, military interventions, or even regime change.
The Impact of AI on Societies and Democracies
The era of Artificial Intelligence not only poses challenges for governments, but also for ordinary citizens. The report “DemocracIA: Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence and Democracy in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico” reveals worrying data: more than 40% of respondents say that online political content produced by AI is increasing polarization in their societies. This phenomenon threatens to further fragment the social network and hinder democratic dialogue.
Moreover, experts such as Paola Ricaurte, a researcher in Artificial Intelligence and feminism, warn about the deeper implications of this technology. In an interview with El País, Ricaurte said: “These systems widen inequality because they make a few people to be able to concentrate all the money, power, natural resources, data and knowledge. They are systems that are made to optimize these extractivist processes of dispossession and violence.” This concentration of power and resources in the hands of a few raises serious questions about equity and social justice in the digital age.
ALBA’s vision for ethical and responsible AI
In the face of these challenges, the ALBA nations have decided to take a proactive role in the development of Artificial Intelligence. Their goal is to become standard-bearers of an AI developed from the global south, with an ethical, safe and responsible perspective that truly benefits their peoples. This initiative represents an important counterweight to the technological domination of the superpowers and seeks to democratize access and use of AI.
President Nicolás Maduro, during the extraordinary meeting of ALBA countries held in Caracas, Venezuela, on February 3rd, announced, “The conglomeration of ALBA countries will in the future be a power in artificial intelligence and new social networks for culture and peace.” This declaration marks the beginning of an ambitious project to build ALBA’s artificial intelligence and social networking capabilities, with the intention of extending its influence throughout Latin America and the world.
This project goes beyond merely advancing technology; it is deeply aligned with the founding principles of ALBA, envisioned by Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez as a Bolivarian alternative to neocolonialism. The initiative seeks to harness AI as a powerful tool to enhance technological sovereignty, foster regional integration, and celebrate cultural diversity. Its goal is to provide tailored solutions that address the unique challenges and needs of Latin American peoples, empowering them to shape their own futures on their own terms.
The ALBA Center for Technology, Science and Innovation
The heart of this initiative will be the new ALBA Technology, Science and Innovation Center. This center, whose physical location has already been determined, will become the epicenter of technological development for scientists, technologists, mathematicians and physicists of the global South. Its establishment marks an important milestone in the search for technological autonomy and digital sovereignty for ALBA member countries.
President Maduro announced that the physical infrastructure of the center is now complete: “The building that will house the Center is ready, and we will soon inaugurate it, equipped with the necessary scientific, technological, and managment conditions to foster the ethical and secure development of artificial intelligence and social networks.” This statement highlights ALBA’s concrete commitment to the project and signals that the center will soon begin its operations.
The center’s location in the Altos Mirandinos Mountains of Venezuela is a strategic choice. This setting offers several advantages, including a peaceful environment ideal for research and development, away from the distractions of urban life, and potentially access to natural resources that could support sustainable technological innovation. Furthermore, its placement in Venezuela— a key leader within the ALBA framework—reinforces the nation’s central role in advancing this transformative initiative.
Source: Resumen Latinoamericano – English