Press Releases

Istanbul, Türkiye – April 21, 2026 - The Honourable Kwame McCoy, MP, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister of Guyana, delivered a comprehensive presentation on Parliamentary Action on Artificial Intelligence (AI) during the Meeting of the Committee on Democracy and Human Rights at the recently concluded 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Addressing Delegates, Minister McCoy framed artificial intelligence as an immediate governance imperative, emphasising that AI is already reshaping how citizens access information, services, and opportunities. He underscored the responsibility of Parliaments to bridge the gap between rapid technological advancement and legislative responsiveness, ensuring that innovation remains grounded in democratic accountability.

Highlighting Guyana’s national approach, Minister McCoy outlined the country’s strategic investments in digital infrastructure as a foundation for responsible AI governance. Over the past five years, Guyana has significantly expanded its digital capacity through the establishment of multiple fibre optic submarine cable connections, widespread broadband access across coastal and hinterland regions, and the licensing of low-earth orbit satellite services to reach underserved communities. These efforts, he noted, have transformed connectivity into a key enabler of development.

The Minister also pointed to Guyana’s progress in digital Government services, with approximately 70 public services now accessible online. These include systems for citizen registration, tax administration, and public benefits, supported by high-speed connectivity across schools, healthcare institutions, and government facilities. He stressed that inclusive digital public infrastructure is critical to ensuring that AI delivers tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.

Turning to the role of Parliaments, Minister McCoy reiterated the need to strengthen legislative frameworks, enhance oversight mechanisms, and build institutional capacity to govern AI effectively. He emphasised that global governance systems must remain inclusive, particularly for small and developing States, to prevent disproportionate influence by larger powers or private interests.

Addressing emerging risks, Minister McCoy called for a balanced, rights-based approach to AI governance. He identified key concerns, including misinformation and disinformation, privacy and data protection challenges, algorithmic bias, and the growing threat of AI-generated harms such as non-consensual intimate imagery. He urged Parliaments to adopt targeted and adaptive legislative responses that keep pace with technological change while safeguarding human rights.

Particular emphasis was placed on the urgent need to address AI-generated abuse, especially its disproportionate impact on women and public figures, through specific legal protections.

Looking ahead, Minister McCoy outlined Guyana’s future priorities, including advancing 5G deployment, strengthening cybersecurity systems, expanding digital skills training, and positioning the country as a regional hub for digital innovation and ICT-enabled services.

In closing, Minister McCoy issued a call to action, urging Parliaments worldwide to act decisively in shaping AI governance frameworks.

End.