Royally pained: King Charles’ charity warns AI could widen global digital divide

A new report from King Charles III’s charity reveals AI’s potential to either bridge or widen global digital inequality. As President Trump pledges $500 billion for AI infrastructure that could create 100,000 American jobs, many people worldwide still lack basic access to digital devices—highlighting a stark contrast nearly 50 years after Queen Elizabeth II sent her first email. This digital divide threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities unless governments, educators, and employers collaborate on inclusive digital access policies.

The big picture: The King’s Trust’s 2025 Future of Work Report warns that without equitable access, the digital revolution could deepen global inequality rather than fulfill its potential to level the playing field.

• The report characterizes the world as being “in the midst of a workplace digital revolution” where digital skills are increasingly essential for employment, even in low-income countries.
• Young people face multiple barriers to acquiring digital skills, including outdated education systems, rapidly evolving technology, income constraints limiting access to devices, and gender-based obstacles.

Key details: The report highlights specific challenges preventing equal digital skill development across populations.

• Education systems often fail to keep pace with rapidly changing technology, leaving students without the specific digital skills needed for modern workplaces.
• Women face additional challenges in accessing digital opportunities in some countries, creating a persistent gender gap in digital skills.
• The report calls for a comprehensive approach from governments, educators, and employers, including updated education policies and workplace training programs.

What they’re saying: Some industry leaders remain optimistic about AI’s potential to create more equitable outcomes if properly managed.

• David Black from Google UK told Newsweek: “AI has the potential to transform the working lives of future generations for the better, supercharging the creativity of young people as they work to solve the greatest challenges of our generation.”
• Paul Veitch from Accenture emphasized that “collaboration is key to addressing digital equity, as it requires a multifaceted approach involving access, skills, and support.”

Real-world impact: The King’s Trust summit featured testimony from individuals directly affected by digital inequality.

• Oluwatosin Rotimi, a 27-year-old entrepreneur from Nigeria, shared her challenges in starting a fashion business, including difficulties accessing laptops, stable internet, and affordable digital resources.