Transforming Morocco’s Prosocial AI Potential : Multilevel Governance Framework, Prosocial AI Index and National Charter for Sustainable Human Development

Abstract

Prosocial artificial intelligence is emerging as a new socio-technical paradigm, shifting AI systems from an instrumental and purely commercial vision to a new conception focused on social values, collective well-being, human dignity, ethics, inclusion and sustainable human development. This research aims to answer the following central question: how can a country in the Global South, such as Morocco, achieve leadership and transform its potential in Prosocial AI? To this end, this conceptual research adopted a qualitative triangulation combining document analysis, semi-structured interviews with national and international experts, and a comparative analysis of international best practices in Prosocial AI. This research explores Morocco's various strengths in prosociality that predispose it to become a pioneering country in Prosocial AI in Africa, highlighting the different actions taken within the framework of the welfare state and public policies, as well as institutional projects and programs, to make AI a driver of socio-economic development and social inclusion. This paper also examines the challenges and obstacles hindering the exploitation of this potential of Prosocial AI. This approach allowed us to develop a multilevel and multidimensional conceptual model. It also enabled us to propose a Prosocial AI Index, a multidimensional composite measurement index, as well as a national charter for prosocial AI, conceived as a normative instrument to guide and direct the development of prosocial AI within the context of an augmented welfare state. The findings of this study have allowed us to highlight the prerequisites and enabling conditions underpinning what we conceptualize as the foundations of prosociality in a Southern State, thereby positioning Morocco as a potential pioneering regional and African hub for Prosocial AI. They also offer a replicable model for emerging economies seeking to align AI innovation with ethical and societal objectives, serving both people and the planet.