The MENA Observatory on Responsible AI is an interdisciplinary platform connecting policy-oriented researchers and innovators, aimed at fostering collaboration and building capacity for responsible data and AI practices.

The MENA AI Observatory was born out of this project. Launched in 2023 with the support of IDRC, the Observatory aims to provide a platform for collaborative research and knowledge dissemination on responsible AI and data governance in the region. The Observatory aims to enhance the visibility and impact of MENA research and experiences in global policy-making spaces. Overall, the A2K4D and CCE partnership continues to push for inclusive development through innovative research, capacity building, and stakeholder collaboration in responsible data and Artificial Intelligence for development.

We aspire to become a dynamic, inclusive and locally-driven platform on responsible AI in MENA serving as a catalyst for change by being a tool for policy making, a hub for connecting stakeholders and communities and the go-to home for any and all knowledge on responsible AI as it pertains to everyone’s lives.

• To inform, influence and monitor policy making as it pertains to responsible AI for development and inclusion in MENA.

• To promote a grounds-up approach that emphasizes local experiences, community engagement, and inclusion in all aspects of data collection and AI systems development, and to raise awareness and fill gaps in knowledge on the responsible use of data and AI in a way that is in line with the nuances of the region.

• To connect communities – researchers, policy makers, entrepreneurs, civil society, educators and beneficiaries, by creating dynamic collaborative spaces that foster engagement between the different stakeholders to promote policy making that fulfills the promise of responsible AI for development.

• To champion MENA voices, values, and standards in responsible data and AI governance, regionally and globally and share experiences accordingly.