The 2024 edition of the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) reveals that Chile leads the region with a score of 73.07, followed by Brazil and Uruguay. The study, conducted by Chile’s CENIA and ECLAC, evaluates 19 countries on their readiness for AI integration, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges, particularly in gender equity within AI research and talent retention. Prominent officials emphasize the necessity of strategic policies to maximize AI’s developmental potential while preventing the widening of socioeconomic gaps.
On September 24, 2024, Chile’s National Center for Artificial Intelligence (CENIA) and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) unveiled the results of the second edition of the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA 2024). This comprehensive analysis assessed 19 countries across the region, measuring their readiness for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Chile emerged as the leader of the index with a score of 73.07 points out of a potential 100, followed closely by Brazil at 69.30 points and Uruguay at 64.98 points. Other nations, classified as “adopters,” include Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico, with scores ranging from 51.40 to 55.77. While the region has exhibited a doubling in the concentration of AI talent in its workforce over eight years, it still lags behind the Global North. Yet, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay are recognized as pioneers in AI, having implemented technologies and fostered strategies to magnify their impact across various sectors. Chile’s Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation, Aisén Etcheverry, noted, “Having an index of this kind helps us move forward with sound policies and is critical for the success of these strategies. … The challenges are infinite and having a tool like this is fundamental.” ECLAC’s Acting Deputy Executive Secretary, Javier Medina Vásquez, emphasized the dual potential of AI to drive development while warning of its risks: “AI can foster innovation … But it can also widen preexisting socioeconomic gaps if we don’t act quickly and decisively.” The index categorizes scores across various dimensions, including enabling factors, governance, and research, development, and adoption. The findings indicate that Chile has excelled in these aspects, thereby creating an ecosystem conducive to AI development. The report also highlights infrastructural advancements and the significant role of public policies that transcend short-term government agendas, ensuring a framework for responsible AI utilization. Despite notable successes, the report underscores ongoing challenges, particularly regarding gender equity in AI research and the retention of skilled professionals. The launch event gathered prominent figures including Minister Etcheverry, Javier Medina, and the EU Ambassador to Chile, Claudia Gintersdorfer. This collective effort showcases the progression and potential of AI in fostering growth across the region. Achievements showcased during the event included successful AI initiatives from major companies like Google and Microsoft, which illustrate the practical application of AI technologies in enhancing connectivity and conservation efforts. In summary, the ILIA 2024 study presents a clear picture of the current state and the potential of AI in Latin America, placing Chile at the forefront of this transformative technology.
The Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) serves as a benchmark for evaluating the readiness and performance of countries in integrating artificial intelligence into their economies and societies. The 2024 edition of the index reflects a concerted effort by Latin American governments and institutions to assess their progress and identify areas for improvement in AI research, development, and adoption. The index not only ranks countries but also highlights the collaborative efforts required to ensure that all nations can benefit from technological advancements in AI, particularly addressing socioeconomic disparities and fostering inclusive growth.
The release of the ILIA 2024 indicates significant strides made by Chile and its regional counterparts in the realm of artificial intelligence, with Chile emerging as a leader in investments and implementation strategies. However, challenges remain, particularly in achieving equitable participation in AI development and ensuring that the benefits of this technology are widespread across all sectors. Continued collaboration and strategic policymaking will be essential to harness the full potential of AI in Latin America, ultimately driving innovation and economic growth while addressing inherent social inequalities.
Original Source: www.cepal.org
