Algocracy in the Global South: The threat of a new dependency

Abstract

The widespread use of Artificial Intelligence systems in public functions is known as algocracy. However, there is limited research on its implications in the Global South. Considering the concentration of capabilities in developed countries, we state that algocracy raises significant social, political, and geopolitical implications. It has the potential to incorporate the biases and values of the service vendors, reduce sovereignty, and facilitate political manipulation. Furthermore, it could be used as a tool for dominant countries to exert power beyond their borders. Therefore, this paper analyzes the implications of algocracy, as it could lead to the imposition of dependency relations on developed countries in the Global South.