EmpatIA: AI to solve public issues in LATAM

2022-23 Scale-up project

Overview 

EmpatIA explores the use of machine learning to tackle the most pressing development issues in the public sector in Latin America and engages in participatory and open projects to develop evidence that promotes a fair, open and sustainable region. The second edition of EmpatIA will focus on piloting and documenting AI use and impact on diverse and non-traditional communities.

ILDA is a Latin American organization that contributes to generating and ethically using evidence to solve the challenges of inclusive development in the region. At ILDA, we understand that data has a political and human character, not just technical. Open data not only promotes transparency and accountability but serves as a tool for citizens to participate in an informed manner, protect civic space and exercise their political rights. At ILDA we believe that data can constitute a basis for empowerment and justice.

Project's trajectory over the past year

Over the past year, we shared the results of the AI projects for the public good’s pilot based on a co-production framework and disseminated materials for capacity building. We have also held activities to create awareness on AI ethics issues and strengthen the voice of the Latin American community on the global conversation.

The lessons learned on the previous edition and the support of the SCUP mentors gave us key insights to identify new approaches to address the region's needs and AI's state of the art.

Impact

• 5 countries in Latin America developed solutions for the public good based on AI
• +50 decision makers received training on AI principles
• 8 reports on the state of AI policies in Latin America were produced
• Artificial intelligence ethics and use