LocationsArtificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a technology of the future. Today, it is a universal tool for economic and social progress. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Report 2025, global investment in AI has tripled over the past four years, and the number of countries with national AI strategies has increased more than fivefold over the past six years. Belarus is actively involved in this process, gradually building up its potential in the field of artificial intelligence.
AI in Belarus: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
October 2, 2025
Photo: UNDP Belarus
Human development challenges in the digital age
The 2025 Human Development Report reveals a troubling trend: for the first time in 30 years, the global Human Development Index is declining, and global inequality has risen for the fourth consecutive year.
In this context, artificial intelligence can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For example, in healthcare, machine learning algorithms help diagnose diseases; in education, adaptive systems personalize learning programs; and in industry and infrastructure, AI solutions optimize production and manage energy consumption.
The AI paradox: development and inequality
While AI offers powerful tools to help achieve SDGs, it also presents a paradox. It can drive economic growth while simultaneously deepening social divides.
Photo: UNDP Belarus
A global UNDP survey highlights this tension: while 60% of people believe AI will positively impact the job market, one in eight fears losing their job to automation. This is especially evident in developing countries, where 70% see AI as a productivity booster but face a shortage of digital skills.
AI in Belarus: techno-optimism and challenges
A 2024-2025 assessment of Belarus’ readiness for digital transformation, made by UNDP and the Ministry of Communications and Informatization of the Republic of Belarus with over 10,000 people involved, revealed systemic problems in AI implementation.
Photo: UNDP Belarus
Globally, the country ranks 113th out of 160 in the global ranking of adaptation to artificial intelligence and lags in key parameters like infrastructure, innovation, and human capital.
In Belarus, 43% of the population has never used AI technologies. These findings align closely with UNDP’s global estimate, that 36% of people worldwide have not yet interacted with AI, suggesting that Belarus follows a similar adoption pattern, with slightly lower levels of regular use.
At the same time, Belarusian society demonstrates “techno-optimism”. Thus, 57% of Belarusians believe technology will help solve major social and economic challenges. Still, 21% expressed concern that, in addition to solutions, digital technologies could create new challenges.
The study also found Belarus is making efforts to build a foundation for AI, particularly in education. Around 60% of respondents were aware of available training programs in data analysis and machine learning, creating a pipeline for skilled specialists in the digital economy. However, barriers persist, including a shortage of qualified teachers and an uneven distribution of educational opportunities between regions.
Photo: UNDP Belarus
State regulation and support for AI
Over the past few years, Belarus made significant steps in building the legal and infrastructural foundation for AI. In 2022, the country launched belai.by, a platform designed to connect its community of AI specialists. The following year, it spearheaded the development of a model "On Artificial Intelligence" law for CIS countries, signaling its readiness to participate in shaping international approaches.
Global experience shows that such measures create favorable conditions for the accelerated development of AI. However, Belarusian society is still largely unaware of state support for AI technologies. According to surveys, 73% of respondents are unaware of state programs for AI development, and 67% could not say whether any relevant legislation exists.
Balancing innovation and inclusiveness
The UNDP report stresses that artificial intelligence represents far more than just another technology – it's a powerful tool for transforming society and the economy.
AI can drive sustainable development, but only if all citizens can benefit from its advantages while keeping emerging risks in check. Technology alone is insufficient for this. What's needed is a strategy featuring smart polices to bridge the digital divide and create equal opportunities in the digital age.
Global experience shows that effective digital transformation requires a comprehensive approach spanning technology, education, and regulation. For Belarus to succeed with this strategy, government, business, and academic institutions must work together as partners.
Photo: UNDP Belarus
Artificial Intelligence as a Window of Opportunity
The Human Development Report 2025 points out that the future of artificial intelligence remains uncertain. Yet AI is becoming more accessible every day, with new applications emerging across different sectors. This gives Belarus a real chance to speed up how these technologies are adopted throughout its economy and society.
Building infrastructure steadily, training skilled workers, and taking part in international initiatives creates a strong foundation for sustainable development through digital transformation.
As global experience demonstrates, technology is merely a tool. The ultimate question is not what the tools can do, but who will wield them, and for what purpose.
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