World Council of Churches 81d ago

“This is only not about AI, it's about whether digital transformation will empower people or leave them behind”- Kamal Sedra AI governance must Include the marginalized, not just the powerful: Kamal Sedra, a digital transformation and cybersecurity specialist working across the Middle East and North Africa, argues that AI is rapidly reshaping power — often at the expense of vulnerable communities. While governments across the region are investing heavily in AI for surveillance and information control, civil society, journalists, and minority groups are being left without the tools or protections they need. Such technologies can simultaneously offer visibility and expose communities to silencing and exclusion — particularly when systems aren't designed with human rights in mind. He calls for three concrete steps: genuine accountability mechanisms beyond mere principles; meaningful inclusion of civil society and minority voices in shaping AI governance; and investment in local capacity so communities can protect themselves and participate. His central message is that AI governance is ultimately not a technical debate — it is a question of whether digital transformation will empower people broadly or entrench the advantages of those already in power. ------- The WCC is a worldwide fellowship of churches seeking unity in common witness and Christian service. For more information go to https://www.oikoumene.org​ Follow WCC on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldcouncilofchurches Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/worldcouncilofchurches Twitter: https://twitter.com/oikoumene​