AI May Facilitate Preservation of Pacific Languages, Says Advocate
ABC News
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 12 July 2024
- Priority Score
- 2
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 13 July 2026, 12:01 am
Description
Across the world, half of the 7 thousand living languages are endangered. There's optimism among advocates that artificial intelligence help the survival of of pacific languages.
Summary
This report examines the potential for frontier AI models to revitalize over 700 endangered languages in Oceania, while highlighting the critical need for indigenous-led data governance. It argues that for AI to safely support cultural heritage without introducing inaccuracies or digital colonialism, Pacific Islanders must maintain sovereignty over the training and deployment of these systems. The inclusion of PNG's draft laws to address AI misuse further underscores the regional shift toward establishing governance frameworks for emerging technologies. While focused on linguistic preservation, the discussion touches on broader safety implications regarding data integrity and the ethical development of specialized AI capabilities.
Body
Across the world, half of the 7 thousand living languages are endangered. In Oceania alone, over 700 languages are endangered, of which Papua New Guinea accounts for more than 300.Now with artificial intelligence or AI rapidly changing how we communicate, the questions begs if it would hinder or help the survival of of pacific languages.Lautalie Schmidt-Geen, CEO/Founder of the Va'a Collective in New Zealand, believes there's potential, but that it ought to be governed by Pacific Islanders in order for the language to be taught accurately. "I'm in communities teaching our people how to use AI and how it can work for them," says Ms Schmidt-Geen.CreditsKyle Evans, ProducerImage DetailsArtificial intelligence is being used in firefighting, health and government, among other industries.(Unsplash: Steve Johnson)Program:More from Pacific BeatPacific, World Politics, AI, Laws Appears In Australia's foreign minister says China missile test proves need for a regional security agreement. Duration: 47 minutes 36 seconds47m 5itemsIn this episode1 of 5Dozens of families face eviction in Timor-Leste airport expansionDuration: 6 minutes 44 seconds6m 2 of 5PNG drafts new laws to address AI misuseDuration: 5 minutes 45 seconds5m 3 of 5Potter keen to have another go at the helm with Fiji BatiDuration: 4 minutes 54 seconds4m 54s4 of 5PlayingAI may facilitate preservation of pacific languages, says advocateDuration: 8 minutes 31 seconds8m 5 of 5Fijian cameraman nominated for an Emmy awardDuration: 8 minutes 16 seconds8m