Geneva, March 11, 2025 – HealthAI, the Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, is extending its reach to countries around the world. The organization is inviting nations to express interest in becoming a Pioneer Country within its Global Regulatory Network (GRN). The goal is to strengthen local capabilities for AI regulation in health. The move reflects the growing international demand and HealthAI’s commitment to inclusivity and global access to responsible AI-driven health solutions.
HealthAI plans to launch the first cohort of 10 Pioneer Countries by the second quarter of 2025, with plans for further expansion in 2026. “We’ve seen strong interest from multiple countries, and we are deeply grateful for the support shown thus far. This initiative highlights the power of global collaboration, reinforcing the need to expand our reach. Now is the time for global action to ensure AI is leveraged equitably to transform health systems worldwide. Together, let us create a world where AI serves as a trusted and transformative tool for health and well-being for all,” said Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite, CEO at HealthAI.
The call for interest underscores the need for worldwide cooperation on responsible AI in health. It also emphasizes HealthAI’s dedication to ensuring that all nations can take part in this transformative journey and benefit from the advancements. The initiative aims to reduce health inequalities and drive the adoption of AI-driven solutions. Additionally, it seeks to foster greater innovation and collaboration within diverse health systems. HealthAI is encouraging participation from ministries of health, technology, AI, and development, along with regulatory authorities around the globe. This inclusive approach guarantees that AI-driven health advancements reach countries regardless of their economic status or location.
Why Now? The Urgency of AI-Driven Health Innovation
The healthcare landscape is at a pivotal moment. AI offers unprecedented opportunities to boost health accessibility, efficiency, and equity. However, without coordinated action, those who benefit from AI and those left behind will continue to diverge. This is one of the reasons why HealthAI is dedicated to responsibly harnessing AI to create system-wide change. By engaging governments and regulatory bodies, this initiative ensures AI is not simply a tool for innovation but a force for global health equity. The Pioneer Country program provides a structured pathway for nations to integrate AI solutions and contribute to a collaborative ecosystem that shapes the future of responsible AI in health. This is a critical opportunity for countries to join a worldwide movement dedicated to ensuring that AI-driven health advancements reach those who need them most.
Next Steps
Governments, regulatory agencies, and relevant institutions with a mandate for national AI governance are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest by March 31, 2025. Selected Pioneer Countries will gain access to implementation support, AI expertise, and strategic partnerships aimed at driving national health innovation. HealthAI will contact all parties who submitted an expression of interest during April 2025 to discuss the next steps.
How to Apply
Interested parties can submit their expression of interest by March 31st, 2025, by visiting https://www.healthai.agency/grn. For inquiries, contact Stéphane Dupré, Head of Communication, at [email protected].
About HealthAI
HealthAI, a Geneva-based, independent non-profit, is driving equitable access to AI-powered health innovations. Collaborating with governments, international organizations, and global health leaders, HealthAI focuses on AI governance and regulation to transform healthcare for all. Positioned at the intersection of healthcare, artificial intelligence, and policy, HealthAI aims to bridge the gap between technologies and accessibility, especially in low- and middle-income countries. By fostering trust, governance, and collaboration, HealthAI is shaping a future where health technologies benefit every population worldwide.
For more information, visit www.healthai.agency
*Pioneer Country: A pioneer country is defined as a country deciding to become an early adopter of the Responsible AI in health approach and that is committed to advancing the maturity level of its regulatory system for AI in health to ensure the safety and effectiveness of AI solutions in health. With this minimum level of commitment and skills to validate AI solutions in health, a country may qualify to join HealthAI’s Global Regulatory Network (GRN).
