BRICS leaders have called for wider access to artificial intelligence resources, stronger international cooperation and common safeguards to reduce risks linked to AI, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and other emerging technologies.
What Did BRICS Leaders Say About AI?
The New Delhi Declaration 2026, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital, laid out a broad technology agenda covering AI, cybersecurity, digital public infrastructure, telecommunications networks, quantum technologies, startups and advanced manufacturing.
The declaration recognised AI as an important technology with the potential to support economic growth and sustainable development. At the same time, BRICS leaders stressed that access to AI resources should be fair and inclusive, particularly for developing countries.
The countries committed to implementing the BRICS Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence.
Why Are BRICS Countries Calling for AI Safeguards?
The declaration said AI should be developed and used in a way that is trustworthy and takes potential risks into account.
It called for international cooperation to improve access to AI resources while ensuring safety, security, inclusiveness and reliability. BRICS leaders also highlighted the need to improve the energy efficiency of AI systems.
The declaration said a “just, fair, equitable and prosperous future” should remain an important goal, particularly for countries of the Global South.
Proposal for Conducting Cyber Crisis Drill, Tabletop Exercise (TTEx) & CCMP Readiness Exercise
What Cybersecurity Risks Did BRICS Highlight?
Cybersecurity was described as an important part of cooperation among BRICS countries. The declaration called for efforts to address malicious software, data-security threats and misuse of technologies, including cybercrime, misinformation, hate speech, disinformation and deepfakes.
BRICS countries also noted the work of the BRICS Working Group on Security in the use of information and communication technologies. They welcomed cooperation on Computer Emergency Response Teams, law-enforcement cooperation and joint research and development.
The declaration also called for globally interoperable common rules and standards for supply-chain security and emphasised cooperation on telecommunications to preserve peace and support economic and social development.
What Is BRICS Planning for Digital Infrastructure?
The countries called for deeper cooperation towards building a sovereign and self-reliant digital ecosystem. They described digital and information and communication technology systems as important to economic development, social inclusion, improved service delivery and innovation.
The declaration supported the development of resilient, safe, secure, inclusive and interoperable digital public infrastructure and digital public goods based on national priorities and circumstances.
It also noted a proposal to create a digital public infrastructure repository for BRICS countries and pilot digital public infrastructure solutions for digital transformation.
BRICS countries also backed continued cooperation on submarine cable infrastructure to improve international digital connectivity and network resilience. A proposed feasibility study for a high-speed communications network linking member countries is also being taken forward.
What Does the Declaration Say About AI and Copyright?
The declaration addressed the relationship between artificial intelligence and intellectual property, including the use of protected material in AI training.
BRICS leaders recognised the importance of respecting intellectual property rights in the digital environment and referred to fair remuneration for rights holders while also considering the priorities of developing countries.
They also raised concerns about the possible misappropriation and misrepresentation of knowledge, heritage and cultural values that may be insufficiently represented in datasets and AI models.
How Will BRICS Support New Technologies and Startups?
BRICS members welcomed cooperation in emerging technologies such as quantum technologies and proposed BRICS Global Research Advanced Infrastructure Network centres.
The leaders also welcomed the establishment of a BRICS Incubator Network and further consideration of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund to support innovation-led growth.
The declaration highlighted the role of young people in innovation and economic competitiveness and encouraged greater participation by young researchers and startups through mechanisms including the Young Scientists Forum and the Young Innovators Prize.
It also acknowledged a proposed virtual platform for BRICS youth startups to support engagement, networking and exchanges among young scientists and innovators.
What Other Technologies Will BRICS Cooperate On?
The declaration backed cooperation on Industry 4.0, smart factories, robotics and advanced digital production technologies.
It also supported greater adoption of artificial intelligence by manufacturing companies and small and medium enterprises, extending the technology agenda beyond AI governance to its practical use in industry.
The wider approach combines efforts to expand access to emerging technologies with measures aimed at reducing security, privacy, reliability and other digital risks.
What Does This Mean for Technology Users?
The BRICS declaration reflects an effort to expand the benefits of AI and digital technologies without ignoring risks such as cybercrime, deepfakes, malicious software, data-security threats and misinformation. For users, the growing adoption of AI makes it increasingly important to verify digital information, protect personal data and remain cautious about manipulated or misleading online content.
The420 Digital Takeaway
AI access and AI safety are increasingly being treated as connected issues. As BRICS countries push for wider use of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure, the declaration also calls for stronger safeguards, cybersecurity cooperation and trustworthy technology so that expansion does not come at the cost of security and reliability.
About the author — Ayesha Aayat writes on cybercrime, digital safety, and emerging online threats. Her work focuses on public awareness, legal clarity, and technology-driven risks.
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