New Delhi Declaration Signals Global Push for Inclusive and Responsible AI

• 88 nations adopted the New Delhi Declaration promoting “AI for All.”

• Establishes a non-binding global roadmap for inclusive, sustainable AI development.

• Focuses on equitable access, workforce reskilling, and energy-efficient AI systems.

• Launches initiatives like AI Commons platforms and a workforce playbook.

• Encourages open-source ecosystems and affordable digital infrastructure.

• Positions India as a key bridge in global AI governance discussions.

In a significant moment for global technology governance, New Delhi recently served as the stage for a major international summit on artificial intelligence, culminating in the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration by 88 countries and several international organisations. Centered on the theme of “AI for All,” the agreement lays out a collective, though non-binding, framework aimed at ensuring artificial intelligence benefits societies broadly rather than remaining concentrated in a few technologically advanced nations.

The AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded on December 20 following two days of deliberations held on February 18 and 19 in India’s capital. Delegates worked to shape a shared vision for the future of AI—one that promotes access, fairness, and sustainability. The resulting declaration outlines a coordinated roadmap designed to expand participation in AI development, strengthen workforce readiness, and encourage environmentally responsible innovation.

Structured around seven thematic pillars—referred to as “Chakras” by the host government—the summit addressed a wide spectrum of priorities. Discussions ranged from widening access to foundational AI tools and infrastructure to equipping workers with the skills required in an AI-driven economy. Another central focus was reducing the environmental footprint of AI systems, alongside leveraging the technology to accelerate scientific discovery.

India used the platform to champion its philosophy of inclusive progress, drawing from the Sanskrit maxim “Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya,” which translates to welfare and well-being for all. This guiding principle shaped the summit’s emphasis on shared growth and collective responsibility in the AI era.

The declaration sets out several tangible initiatives. Among them is a proposed Charter for Democratic Diffusion of AI, intended to make essential AI technologies and resources more affordable and accessible. A Global AI Impact Commons platform is also planned, enabling countries to exchange practical applications and replicate successful AI-driven solutions. Complementing this effort is the creation of a Trusted AI Commons—a centralized repository of standards, tools, and benchmarks to support the development of secure and reliable AI systems.

In addition, signatories endorsed the formation of an International Network of AI for Science Institutions, designed to strengthen cross-border research collaboration. To address employment challenges and opportunities arising from AI adoption, the agreement also introduces an AI Workforce Development Playbook, offering guidance to governments preparing their labor forces for technological transformation.

The breadth of participation underscores the declaration’s global character. Signatories include major powers such as the United States, China, Russia, and members of the European Union, alongside smaller and developing nations including Bhutan, Fiji, and Suriname. Countries with varied geopolitical alignments—including Iran and Cuba—also joined, making the accord one of the most diverse international AI frameworks assembled to date.

A recurring concern throughout the summit was the widening divide between nations that design advanced AI systems and those that primarily use them. The declaration emphasizes closing this gap through affordable digital infrastructure, support for open-source ecosystems, and encouragement of locally tailored innovation. The underlying message is that emerging economies should play an active role in creating AI solutions, not merely importing them.

Energy consumption emerged as another critical topic. With AI systems demanding increasing computational power, delegates acknowledged the urgency of promoting efficiency and sustainable resource use. The roadmap therefore calls for innovation that balances technological advancement with environmental stewardship.

By convening such a broad coalition and advancing a comprehensive vision for equitable AI governance, India has positioned itself as a mediator between technologically advanced countries and those still building digital capacity. The New Delhi Declaration not only reflects a shared aspiration for inclusive AI development but also signals India’s ambition to shape the evolving global conversation on how artificial intelligence should serve humanity.