Artificial Intelligence has become more than just something that tech giants and governments need to monitor. This technology has already impacted people’s health care, job applications, government benefits, and public service provision. Simultaneously, non-profit organizations are utilizing AI to create grant applications, draft reports, analyze information, and streamline daily processes.
While the innovation presents new avenues, it raises a critical question: Who ensures AI is equitable, transparent, and responsible?
A newly released report, Global Index on Responsible AI 2026, provides us with compelling answers. In a study conducted across 135 nations and their respective territories based on over 68,000 data points, the report revealed that numerous governments are creating policies, but very few are implementing the necessary measures to safeguard individuals through such policies. For NGOs, this is not a typical software upgrade but a wake-up call about how AI developments will eventually touch the lives of their respective communities, necessitating substantial participation from civil society in defining the shape of technology’s future.
AI Is Moving Faster Than AI Governance
AI progress is a sight to behold. It’s already changing how governments deliver public services, how companies streamline business functions, and how NGOs make their time more efficient. But even as the world rushes to embrace AI, governance and policy are lagging.
A new report from the Global Index on Responsible AI reveals that 126 of 135 countries are now implementing at least one AI-related policy or government initiative.
However, just 73 have a comprehensive national policy, meaning that many current initiatives are scattered and not systematic. In other words, many are talking the talk on responsible AI, but far fewer are walking the walk. For NGOs, that’s problematic because when governments are slow on AI, those most affected tend to be marginalized communities.
Why This Matters for NGOs
Picture someone’s government benefits blocked because a machine made an error. Or an applicant shut out from a job opportunity because of an algorithm weeding out candidates in an AI hiring tool. Or a family given bad information based on data a system compiled.
These are not fictional scenarios.
The application of AI is reaching much beyond tech circles as it begins to shape many decisions that impact daily life. Organizations like ours work directly with communities on the front lines of these changes and bear witness to problems that may not show up in policy reports or white papers. This not only makes us users of AI but vital partners in driving thoughtful adoption.
A Missing Voice in AI Decision-Making
The report’s findings about limited civil society participation in AI governance are alarming: only 36 out of 135 countries examined by the study have some form of mechanism for civil society organisations to play a role in AI governance, for example, in developing legislation. This suggests many AI decisions are made without civil society’s invaluable contributions. NGOs working on the ground often understand local context and challenges faced by marginalised communities better than any policymaker and may be able to point out blind spots in policy approaches to AI.
Research often shows that states with greater levels of civil society engagement tend to exhibit greater inclusive governance processes.
It’s quite simply put: better AI is achieved through more people being able to contribute to the debate.
The Global South Faces Different Challenges
The report also highlights an important global divide.
Many countries in the Global South are making encouraging progress by developing responsible AI frameworks. However, most of these frameworks remain voluntary rather than legally enforceable.
According to the report, 78% of responsible AI frameworks in the Global South are non-binding, compared with 42% in the Global North.
This doesn’t mean countries in the Global South are falling behind. Instead, it reflects differences in regulatory capacity, digital infrastructure, and available resources.
For international NGOs working across regions, this is an important reminder that responsible AI cannot rely on one universal approach. Policies need to reflect local realities and community needs.
Transparency Is Still Missing
Another key finding involves transparency.
Governments are increasingly using AI to support public services, yet in many countries people have little idea when automated systems are involved in decisions that affect their lives.
The report found that only 18% of countries require governments to publicly disclose the algorithmic systems they use.
Without transparency, accountability becomes difficult.
Communities should know when AI is being used, what information is collected, who is responsible for decisions, and how those decisions can be challenged if something goes wrong.
For NGOs advocating for digital rights, inclusion, or good governance, these are issues that deserve growing attention.
Responsible AI Starts with NGOs Too
The report is not only a call to action for governments. It is also a reminder that nonprofits have a responsibility to use AI thoughtfully.
Today, many organizations use AI to support fundraising, proposal writing, communications, budgeting, research, and project management.
These tools can save valuable time, especially for small teams with limited resources.
However, responsible AI use means keeping people at the center of every decision.
Before relying on AI-generated content or recommendations, NGOs should ask:
- Has the information been verified?
- Is confidential beneficiary data protected?
- Could the output contain bias?
- Has a staff member reviewed the results?
- Who remains accountable for the final decision?
AI should strengthen human judgment—not replace it.
What NGOs Can Do Next
As the influence of AI in our communities grows, nonprofit organizations can take on a significant role in directing its development and application. Here are several actions to get you started:
- Establish a short set of simple internal guidelines on how to responsibly use AI in your organization.
- Educate and train your team about what AI can and can not do.
- Join public efforts advocating for increased transparency of AI used in the public sector.
- Take part in state, national, or regional policy discussions on AI.
- Tell the stories of how AI is being used or could be used in your community to make better-informed policy.
Final Thoughts
One thing about the Global Index on Responsible AI 2026 is abundantly clear: while the world is improving in AI governance, significant gaps exist. Policies are increasing but are yet to match up with practice regarding their transparency, accountability, or civil society involvement. The AI topic, for NGOs, isn’t about the technology; it’s about governance, development and human rights.
The ever-increasing penetration of AI in society also provides civil society with the potential to be an integral force in the AI Governance debate.
NGOs can engage community stakeholders to have a seat at the table, encourage transparent practices, and responsible usage of AI within their own structures.AI shouldn’t just be developed behind closed doors; it must be created together with the people that technology serves.
