Bridging Tradition and Technology: Ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Preservation of Indigenous Knowledge in Fiji and the Pacific

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges for the preservation and transmission of indigenous knowledge in Fiji and the broader Pacific region. Traditional knowledge, including oral histories, ecological practices, cultural rituals, and indigenous languages, forms the backbone of Pacific identity and resilience. However, globalization, urbanization, and environmental pressures increasingly threaten its continuity. This paper critically examines the intersection of AI and indigenous knowledge, exploring how emerging technologies can support the documentation, revitalization, and dissemination of cultural heritage while also addressing the ethical, social, and governance challenges inherent in their deployment. Through a review of contemporary literature, case studies, and regional initiatives, the study highlights the potential of AI-driven tools to enhance climate resilience, educational engagement, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Simultaneously, it underscores critical risks, including data misappropriation, cultural misrepresentation, and the erosion of community agency, emphasizing the necessity of community-led governance frameworks. The paper concludes that ethically guided AI integration, rooted in the principles of cultural respect, digital sovereignty, and participatory collaboration, offers a transformative pathway to safeguard Pacific indigenous knowledge for future generations while harnessing the benefits of emerging technologies.