AI Policy & Governance Research Center

About Atlas AI Institute

Advancing evidence-based AI governance, regulatory frameworks, and digital sovereignty for the Global South and emerging economies.

Our Mission

To accelerate responsible, inclusive, and sovereign AI governance across the Global South. We develop practical, context-aware policy frameworks that empower Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and emerging economies to harness artificial intelligence for sustainable development while proactively mitigating systemic risks.

Our Vision

To serve as the premier global research institute for context-specific AI regulation. We envision a future where every nation possesses the institutional capacity, technical expertise, and regulatory infrastructure to govern AI independently, ethically, and effectively, free from technological dependency.

Bridging the Global AI Governance Gap

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping global economies, yet the regulatory frameworks guiding this transformation are predominantly designed by high-income nations. Atlas AI Institute was established to correct this critical imbalance.

We provide the Global South with independent, evidence-based AI policy research and regulatory guidance. By focusing on the unique socio-economic, legal, and infrastructural realities of emerging economies, we ensure that AI adoption drives equitable growth, protects digital rights, and fosters national technological sovereignty.

Our Global Impact & Resources

50+ National AI Policy Frameworks
4 AI Governance Toolkits
Global Curated AI Regulatory Datasets
Worldwide Research & Policy Network

Strategic AI Policy & National Frameworks

We design comprehensive, context-aware national AI strategies tailored to the developmental priorities of emerging economies. Our regulatory roadmaps and governance frameworks help governments navigate AI adoption safely, ensuring algorithmic accountability, transparency, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

AI Governance Toolkits & Regulatory Research

Beyond theoretical policy, we engineer practical governance infrastructure. We develop specialized AI safety and ethics toolkits, alongside massive, curated datasets of global AI regulations. These open-access resources empower policymakers, civil society, and researchers to analyze regulatory trends, audit algorithms, and model policy outcomes effectively.

Institutional Capacity Building for LDCs

We are deeply committed to fostering digital sovereignty in Least Developed Countries. Through targeted research collaborations, policy dialogues, and technical mentorship, we build the local expertise required to independently regulate AI technologies—preventing digital colonialism and empowering homegrown innovation.

Nafiul Ahmad Rafi - Founding Director

Nafiul Ahmad Rafi

Founding Director
AI Policy Research Regulatory Analysis Global Governance

Researching artificial intelligence governance infrastructure, regulatory capacity, and policy implementation in developing and emerging economies.


My research examines the governance infrastructure and regulatory capacity required for responsible artificial intelligence adoption in developing economies, with emphasis on institutional readiness and equitable participation in international AI governance processes.


Through Atlas AI Institute, I conduct comparative policy analysis, contribute to frameworks for regulatory implementation, and advance Global South perspectives in multilateral governance forums.

Professional Affiliations

  • Founding Director Atlas AI Institute
  • Research Affiliate AI Policy Lab, Umeå University
  • Policy Network Member Global AI Policy Initiatives

Research Fellows

Contributing scholars advancing AI policy research across the Global South

AS

Almuyeed Shad

Research Fellow
Shahjalal University of Science & Technology
SA

Shakib Ahmad

Research Fellow
Prime Asia University

Join Our Research Network

We are looking for passionate researchers, policy analysts, and data scientists to collaborate on groundbreaking AI governance projects. If you are dedicated to shaping equitable digital futures for the Global South, we invite you to apply.

Global Collaboration
Policy Impact
Research Resources
Apply Now via Email

Send your CV and a brief statement of interest to research@atlasaii.org

Get in Touch

For research collaborations, policy inquiries, or partnership opportunities, please reach out to our team directly.

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