The Promise of Artificial Intelligence: Insights from the WDR 2026

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming economies, societies, and governments around the world. As a new general purpose technology, AI has the potential to enhance productivity, expand access to services, strengthen government capabilities, and create new opportunities for jobs, innovation and entrepreneurship. The World Development Report 2026: The Promise of Artificial Intelligence, examines how developing countries can harness AI while managing associated risks and ensuring that benefits are broadly shared.

The Institute for Economic Development, in partnership with the United Nations University (UNU), the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA), and the Japanese Association for Development Economics (JADE) are organizing an event to explore key findings and policy recommendations from the World Development Report 2026.

This event will bring together policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, private sector leaders, and students to explore the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption in developing countries — with a focus on Asia.