Lula warns unregulated AI threatens democracy and widens

Lead

President Lula stated on Monday, February 19, 2026, at the Global Artificial Intelligence Summit in New Delhi, India, that the absence of AI regulation could threaten democracy and worsen social inequalities. The event gathered leaders like Narendra Modi (India), Emmanuel Macron (France), and António Guterres (UN), who also advocated for rules to guarantee safe and fair access to the technology.

Development Section

Lula emphasized that the rapid growth of AI—systems able to perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence, such as data analysis, decision-making, and text creation—could exacerbate existing inequalities without public policies ensuring responsible use. According to the president, without international regulation, less privileged countries and groups may fall further behind in benefiting economically and socially from the technology.

The debate focused on concerns over AI misuse in information manipulation, mass surveillance, and job automation, issues gaining global attention. Lula argued that without clear guidelines, algorithms can reinforce biases and discriminate against minorities, as well as block vulnerable populations from accessing essential AI-based services like healthcare and education.

During the summit, Macron and Modi reinforced the call for a global regulatory framework, aligning with Brazil’s concerns. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, proposed creating an international body to oversee AI development, modeled after institutions like the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Brazil has positioned itself as a defender of universal technology access, highlighting the importance of digital inclusion policies and data protection. Lula stressed that this topic must be prioritized in multilateral forums to prevent technological power concentration in large corporations and developed countries.

Developments and Outlook

The discussion in India comes as governments in the European Union, United States, and China advance AI regulation proposals, such as the recently approved EU AI Act. Brazil has bills in Congress aiming to establish specific rules for the sector but faces challenges balancing tech companies’ interests with civil rights protection.

The summit is expected to reinforce the urgency of international cooperation to avoid risks like election manipulation, misinformation spread, and rising unemployment due to automation. The proposal to create a global AI entity is likely to gain momentum in upcoming G20 and UN meetings.

Lula’s main warning is that without regulation, AI could deepen existing social divides and threaten democratic foundations. Clear rules are seen as essential to ensure technological progress benefits society as a whole, not just a privileged few.