Developing nations prepared to lead as Western tech dominance declines- Analysis

Countries should collaborate to build their digital futures without compromising their sovereignty, in light of increasing sanctions, cyberattacks, and surveillance used by certain powers to gain an advantage. The weaponization of banking systems, digital platforms, and telecommunications has prompted states to develop de-risking strategies to regain control over the digital realm and protect their economic security. These strategies involve forming trust-based partnerships based on economic interests, historical linkages, shared values, and competitive strengths. By balancing immediate economic needs, strengthening historical relationships, distancing from conflicting value systems, and leveraging manufacturing and trade capabilities, states can carve out a sovereign digital future. India and Russia, for example, are exploring cooperation in IT, cybersecurity, and smart cities to deepen their historical ties and diversify their trade.

In the 2000s, states prioritized economic growth, individual freedom, and global connectivity, allowing multinational corporations and technology platforms to set the norms in the digital world. However, the lack of accountability to local laws on these platforms led to the spread of disinformation and manipulation of public opinion by malicious actors. Consequently, governments have enforced data privacy and localization laws, leading to concerns over dependence on foreign technology that can be weaponized. To address these challenges, countries are leveraging their combined competitive strengths through multilateral institutional frameworks. For example, the New Delhi G20 Declaration established the One Future Alliance to help Low and Low Middle Income Countries (LMICs) develop their digital futures without sovereignty risks. The Indian model of digital public infrastructure (DPI) provides agency to states by combining private innovation with public accountability through the use of open-source architecture in critical domains like digital identity, payments, banking, and health. This approach allows for the protection of personal data while enabling its availability to private businesses in a cost-effective manner. India has offered this deployment strategy to LMICs and developed nations as a global public good.

In conclusion, a de-risking strategy seeks to balance self-reliance and interconnectedness while safeguarding national interests. It requires systematic planning, sustainable investment, and international cooperation in the digital age. However, it should not lead to digital autarky or isolationism, but rather a transitory phase where states address security threats and negotiate technology-sharing agreements. Multilateral forums like BRICS+, G20, and SCO can play a crucial role in de-escalating tensions, balancing sovereignty concerns, and avoiding an AI-led digital arms race.

Analysis:

The credibility of the sources in this article is questionable. The Valdai Discussion Club, which originally published the article, is a think tank based in Moscow known for promoting the Russian government’s agenda. Additionally, the article was edited by the RT team, which is a Russian state-funded media outlet that has been accused of spreading disinformation.

The presentation of facts in the article is generally accurate, discussing the weaponization of digital platforms, cyberattacks, and the need for countries to prioritize their digital sovereignty. However, the article lacks specific examples or evidence to support its claims, which lowers its overall reliability.

There is a potential bias in the article towards promoting India’s approach to digital sovereignty, as it mentions India’s model of digital public infrastructure (DPI) multiple times as an example of a successful strategy. This bias is not explicitly acknowledged or balanced with alternative perspectives.

The overall impact of the information presented is limited due to the lack of concrete examples, evidence, and diverse perspectives. The article mainly focuses on theoretical concepts and general assertions without providing a nuanced understanding of the topic or addressing potential counterarguments.

Given the prevalence of fake news and the political landscape, it is likely that this article could amplify existing narratives and biases. For example, by emphasizing the threat of weaponization by certain powers, the article may contribute to a sense of mistrust towards global technology platforms and foreign technology. The article’s promotion of India’s approach to digital sovereignty and its association with a Russian think tank and state-funded media outlet may also raise suspicion among readers about potential political motivations or hidden agendas.

Overall, the article’s reliability is limited due to the lack of diverse sources, specific evidence, and balanced perspectives. The potential biases and affiliations of the sources, as well as the potential for the article to contribute to misinformation or reinforce existing narratives, should be taken into account when evaluating its credibility and impact.

Source: RT news: Western tech dominance is over: Developing nations ready to take the lead