Session
Theater
Duration (minutes): 60
Format description: We are planning to have a panel of experts on Indigenous Peoples Languages and language technolog / AI.
Indigenous Language technologies already exist, and their combination with AI holds significant promise for addressing a critical challenge faced by indigenous communities: the shortage of specialists across various fields who possess both cultural and linguistic expertise. However, non-technical barriers continue, to limit the meaningful uptake and integration of these technologies. This session explores key obstacles, including the dominance of closed, propriety platforms that prevent Indigenous communities from using their languages in digital spaces. We also examine how strong data protection laws, though essential, can unintentionally hinder the development and deployment of AI application for Indigenous peoples. Finally, we address broader ethical and political challenges, such as cultural appropriation and the responsible use of Indigenous data and knowledge in technology development. This panel is organized as part of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL) 2022-2032.
We are planning to have both an online moderator and an onsite moderator to enhance the experience for online audience and participants, as well as the possibility of sending in questions through chat
Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development
The Sami Parliament The National Task Force of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (TBC - UNESCO)
There will be representatives from the National Task Force on the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, from UNESCO and from the Sami Community.
10.3
Targets: For a language to thrive, it must be an active part of daily life. Today, this means being seamlessly integrated into screens, keyboards, video platforms, and speech-based systems. Younger generations, in particular, rely on digital platforms for communication. To revitalize, preserve, and strengthen Indingeous Peoples Languages, they must be fully usable in these spaces. If we do not ensure that the Indigenous Peoples languages are included in technological advancements, we risk streamlining the process of cultural assimilation.