Pakistan Ranks Among Top Five Global AI Users, Experts Sound the Alarm

Pakistan has emerged as one of the top five users of artificial intelligence (AI) tools globally, according to a new international survey, prompting growing calls from experts and policymakers for clear ethical guidelines and practical policy frameworks to manage the rapid adoption of AI technologies and protect jobs.

The survey, conducted by the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society, ranked Pakistan fourth out of 21 countries in terms of AI tool usage. The report also highlights that a majority of Pakistanis view AI positively, reflecting widespread optimism in emerging economies about the potential of AI to create employment, boost economic growth, and improve government services.

According to the study, 26% of Pakistani respondents expressed a “very positive” view of AI, following India (43%), Kenya (29%), and Brazil (27%). Additionally, 39% described their view as “fairly positive,” 22% were neutral, 8% “fairly negative,” and 5% “very negative.”

While optimism prevails in Pakistan and other developing countries, experts caution that AI adoption comes with challenges. Industry professionals warn that AI is beginning to replace jobs in IT and service sectors and may reduce critical thinking among employees due to over-reliance on automation.

In contrast, the report shows higher levels of skepticism in advanced economies. In the United States, 34% of respondents held a “fairly negative” or “very negative” opinion of AI, which analysts attribute to political polarization, misinformation concerns, and fears of job losses in the white-collar sector.

The issue of ethical and inclusive AI use in Pakistan was recently addressed during a high-level dialogue organized by UNESCO, titled “AI for Humanity: Ethical and Inclusive AI in Pakistan.” The event brought together over 25 stakeholders from the private sector, academia, civil society, and technology institutions to discuss the National AI Policy and the broader national innovation ecosystem.

At the CIO Global 200 Summit, Umair Azam, CEO of Integration Xperts, stressed the importance of ethical AI use. While acknowledging AI’s efficiency benefits, he warned that misuse can erode credibility and undermine critical thinking. He recommended that organizations appoint AI champions and implement clear policy frameworks for responsible AI adoption.

Pakistan’s AI growth is underpinned by its 146 million broadband users, indicating vast digital potential. However, a separate survey by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) shows that some companies are already reducing hiring in areas where AI technologies have begun replacing human roles. This trend raises significant concerns about skills development, employment, and the broader social impact of accelerated AI adoption in the country.

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