This policy brief addresses the opportunities and concerns of legal and jurisdictional interoperability for artificial intelligence (Al), with a specific focus on the Global South. It first identifies the concept of“interoperability” while assessing its purpose and potential impact, emphasizing the significance of fostering innovation, equitable access, and redressing global inequalities within the Al landscape. Challenges such as regulatory misalignment, resource constraints, sovereignty questions and capacity gaps are identified, highlighting the necessity to accommodate diverse socio-economic contexts when attempting to harmonize international standards, while addressing human rights concerns. The brief proposes practical recommendations, including adaptive regulatory frameworks, capacity-building initiatives, technology transfer and localization, interdisciplinary collaboration, and international cooperation. These measures aim to foster an environment conducive to Al adoption that promotes inclusive development and advances the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a global scale.
