REGULATING ARTI Soundarya S

REGULATING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: CHALLENGES TO DIGITAL SOVEREIGNTY, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND GLOBAL EQUITY

The rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed digital ecosystems, giving rise to complex legal and regulatory challenges that affect digital sovereignty, human rights, and global equity. Governments increasingly rely on AI-driven technologies for public administration, national security, economic development, and service delivery, raising critical concerns regarding data ownership, algorithmic transparency, and the concentration of technological power among a limited number of dominant global actors.

This paper examines the concept of digital sovereignty in the context of AI regulation, focusing on how states can maintain effective control over their digital infrastructure, data governance, and technological resources while simultaneously fostering international cooperation. It further analyzes the impact of AI systems on fundamental human rights, including the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and protection against discrimination, particularly in light of algorithmic bias, automated decision-making, and large-scale surveillance practices.

Additionally, the study highlights the growing disparity between developed and developing countries in accessing AI technologies, infrastructure, and expertise, which intensifies concerns regarding global inequality and the widening digital divide. The paper critically evaluates existing legal frameworks and policy approaches across jurisdictions, identifying key gaps in areas such as cross-border data governance, accountability mechanisms, regulatory harmonization, and ethical oversight.

Adopting a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, this research advocates for the development of inclusive, transparent, and rights-based AI governance models that promote fairness, accountability, and equitable access to technological advancements. It concludes by proposing policy recommendations aimed at strengthening international cooperation, safeguarding national interests, and ensuring that AI contributes to inclusive, equitable, and sustainable global development.

Keywords

Artificial Intelligence, Digital Sovereignty, Human Rights, Global Equity, AI Regulation