AI and the Digital Divide: Challenges and Opportunities

The problem of the digital divide at the national level is relevant for many countries. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into various social domains presents opportunities and challenges, particularly in terms of its potential to influence inequality. The research aims to analyze how AI development and deployment affect digital inequality, either worsening or reducing socio-economic disparities. It identifies key factors contributing to this inequality and evaluates the role of government strategies and regulations in promoting inclusivity and reducing the digital divide. The research uses a methodology that combines content analysis of official documents and regulatory frameworks with empirical data from peer-reviewed sources. Comparative and statistical analyses further examine digital inequality and assess the effectiveness of national AI strategies and policies. The research identifies that AI technologies, depending on ICT infrastructure, digital literacy, and governance, can exacerbate or mitigate digital inequality. Inadequate infrastructure and low digital literacy risk widening socio-economic disparities, particularly in labor markets and education. Conversely, when integrated with effective national strategies and targeted interventions, AI can reduce these inequalities by improving access to education, healthcare, and essential services. The research emphasizes the need for responsible AI governance to mitigate inequality and address infrastructure and digital literacy gaps. It contributes to the scholarly understanding of AI’s impact on the digital divide by synthesizing insights from various academic sources and using rigorous analysis. The research thoroughly evaluates national AI strategies and offers actionable recommendations to promote inclusivity in AI development. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.