Source: Reuters

Reuters reports that during the BRICS summit held in early July 2025, member states—including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—have called for new data protection measures to safeguard against unauthorized use of artificial intelligence technologies. The declaration emphasizes the need for ethical governance of AI and protection of national data sovereignty in response to increasing global AI deployments.

Leaders expressed concern over the unregulated spread of AI systems and the potential exploitation of personal and sensitive data, particularly in developing countries. They highlighted risks related to surveillance, digital colonialism, and algorithmic manipulation, urging the establishment of international frameworks to ensure fairness, privacy, and non-discrimination.

The bloc proposed enhancing cooperation between BRICS members on data infrastructure, AI research, and policy alignment. They also pushed for representation in global AI governance bodies to prevent dominance by a few technological superpowers. The joint statement reflects a growing ambition among emerging economies to shape the global digital order.