Global Index on Responsible AI
Project Overview
The Global Index on Responsible AI (GIRAI) is the first global study to track progress toward responsible, rights-based AI governance through primary data collection in 138 countries and jurisdictions, including 41 across Africa. Led by the Global Center on AI Governance, GIRAI fills critical data gaps and builds inclusive, locally informed evidence to shape global AI policy and strengthen national capacity.
In 2024, GIRAI marked a major milestone with the launch of its First Edition Report and interactive website, offering open access to key insights, data, and trends. With support from 11 regional hubs and over 140 researchers, GIRAI brings together deep local knowledge with a shared commitment to fairness, equity, and accountability in AI governance.
Key Highlights from the First Edition
Broad Global Participation
Data collection covered 138 countries and jurisdictions, including 41 from Africa, making GIRAI the most inclusive Index on responsible AI to date.
Rights-Based Framework
Developed through extensive consultation and piloting, GIRAI’s framework assessed 19 thematic areas across three core dimensions: Responsible AI Governance, Human Rights & AI, and National AI Capacities.
Global Research Network
Over 140 country-level researchers and 11 regional hubs were trained and mobilized, ensuring grounded local expertise in every stage of data collection and review.
First Edition Outputs
The First Edition Report and a multilingual data visualization website were launched in 2024, accompanied by thematic and regional reports to deepen the data’s relevance and reach.
Building on the momentum of the First Edition, work is already underway for the Second Edition of GIRAI, set to launch in 2026. With continued support from Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the Government of Canada, this next phase will expand the scale, scope, and inclusivity of the Index. A key focus will be strengthening the global research network, deepening analysis in priority areas like AI safety, public sector AI use, and gender equity, and enhancing regional collaboration to ensure the Index continues to inform AI policy with grounded, actionable insights from across the Global Majority.