Charter of the Global South AI Policy Coalition
This Charter establishes the mission, guiding principles, membership commitments and governance framework of the Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition, a Coalition convened by Atlas AI Institute to advance responsible AI governance across the Global South.
Preamble
The Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition was established to address a critical gap in global AI governance.
As artificial intelligence systems increasingly shape economies, societies and institutions across the Global South, the need for responsive, inclusive and evidence-based policy frameworks has never been more urgent.
Responsible AI governance requires more than technical expertise — it demands collaboration across disciplines, sectors and borders. The Global South brings essential perspectives shaped by distinct development contexts, diverse cultural values and unique institutional capacities. Yet these voices remain underrepresented in dominant policy discussions.
The Atlas AI Institute convenes this Coalition to ensure that AI governance frameworks are genuinely global, grounded in evidence and responsive to the needs and aspirations of communities across the developing world. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, civil society leaders and practitioners, we create space for shared learning and collective action.
Purpose & Objectives
Mission
To advance responsible, inclusive and evidence-based AI governance across the Global South through international collaboration, capacity-building and policy innovation that centers the voices and needs of developing economies and communities.
Vision
A world where AI governance frameworks are shaped by diverse global perspectives, where the Global South leads in defining its own AI futures and where international collaboration strengthens the capacity of all nations to govern AI responsibly.
Principles
The Coalition's work is grounded in the following core principles:
Responsible AI
Commitment to AI systems that are safe, beneficial and aligned with human rights and social welfare.
Human Rights
Ensuring AI governance protects fundamental freedoms, dignity and rights for all people.
Transparency
Open communication about how AI systems work, who develops them and how they impact society.
Accountability
Clear responsibility structures ensuring developers and deployers of AI systems answer for their impacts.
Evidence-Based Policy
Grounding AI governance in rigorous research, data and tested approaches rather than ideology.
Global South Leadership
Centering the voices, experiences and agency of developing nations in shaping AI futures.
Inclusivity
Ensuring diverse participation across sectors, disciplines, geographies and communities.
International Collaboration
Building solidarity and shared purpose across borders to advance collective AI governance.
Membership & Participation
Member Obligations
By joining the Coalition, members commit to the following obligations:
Maintain Professional Conduct
Engage respectfully in all Coalition activities and discussions.
Respect Diversity
Honor different perspectives, backgrounds and expertise within our community.
Promote Responsible AI
Advocate for AI systems that benefit society and protect human welfare.
Share Knowledge Responsibly
Contribute insights and learning while respecting intellectual property.
Respect Intellectual Property
Protect the rights and ownership of ideas and research.
Support Evidence-Based Dialogue
Ground discussions in research and data rather than speculation.
Avoid Misinformation
Verify information and combat the spread of false or unsubstantiated claims.
Contribute Positively
Actively participate in advancing the Coalition's mission and shared values.
Eligibility
The Coalition welcomes anyone committed to advancing responsible AI governance across the Global South — regardless of sector, geography or discipline, including:
Governance
Coalition Coordination
The Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition is coordinated by the Atlas AI Institute, which provides strategic direction, administrative support and convening capacity while preserving the Coalition's collaborative and independent character.
Membership Review
Applications for Coalition membership are reviewed to ensure alignment with our values and commitment to advancing responsible AI governance. We welcome members from all sectors, geographies and disciplines who share this commitment.
Transparent Governance
The Atlas AI Institute may update governance processes as the Coalition evolves. Any changes will be communicated transparently to all members and will respect the democratic spirit of our community.
Independence & Impartiality
The Coalition remains independent, evidence-based and non-partisan. We do not endorse political parties, candidates or commercial products, but rather advance shared principles of responsible AI governance grounded in research and human values.
Data & Privacy
Responsible Data Stewardship
Member information is handled responsibly and securely. We respect privacy and comply with international data protection standards across all jurisdictions where our members are based.
Optional Public Listing
Coalition membership does not require public listing. Members choose whether their participation is visible in our public directory, ensuring full autonomy over professional disclosure.
Profile Control
Members retain full control over their public profile visibility and can update their preferences at any time. You decide how your engagement with the Coalition is presented publicly.
Secure Communications
All communications within the Coalition are managed with care for confidentiality and security. Member contact details are never shared with third parties without explicit consent.
Amendments — Charter Evolution
The Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition Charter reflects our shared values and commitments at this moment in time. As our community grows and global AI governance landscapes evolve, this Charter may be updated to remain relevant and responsive.
Any amendments will be communicated transparently to Coalition members with adequate notice and opportunity for input. We remain committed to collaborative governance that honors our founding principles while adapting to new challenges and opportunities in AI policy.
Members are encouraged to contribute to the ongoing development of this Charter by submitting feedback and recommendations through official Coalition channels. Collective ownership of this document is central to our governance model.
Founding Declaration
"By joining the Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition, members affirm their commitment to advancing responsible, inclusive, evidence-based and collaborative AI governance across the Global South."Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition · Founding Charter
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Coalition Charter?
The Charter is the founding document of the Atlas Global South AI Policy Coalition. It sets out the Coalition's mission, vision, guiding principles, member obligations, eligibility criteria, governance structure and provisions for future amendment.
Who adopted this Charter?
The Charter was adopted by the Atlas AI Institute, which convenes and coordinates the Global South AI Policy Coalition, providing strategic direction, administrative support and convening capacity while preserving the Coalition's collaborative and independent character.
Can the Charter be amended?
Yes. The Charter is treated as a living document. Amendments may be made as the Coalition and global AI governance landscape evolve, with any changes communicated transparently to members with adequate notice and opportunity for input.
How can an organization formally join under this Charter?
Organizations and individuals across research, government, civil society, industry and academia may apply to join the Coalition. Applications are reviewed for alignment with the Charter's values and its commitment to responsible, evidence-based AI governance.