Legal and Regulatory Implications of Disruptive Technologies in Emerging Market Economies

Abstract

This report is prepared for the World Bank Legal Department’s Thematic Working Group on Technology and Innovation in Development. The research paper explores the legal issues and considerations the World Bank should take into account when considering financing projects with components that involve disruptive technologies. The report highlights legal and regulatory issues which may either enable or which may impede the adoption or creation of disruptive technologies, particularly in emerging market economies.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Distributive Ledger Technology, Smart Contracts, Cloud Computing, Drones, Internet of Things, Cryptocurrencies, Fintech, Collaborative Economy, Sharing Economy, Nano and Geo-Spatial Technology, Intellectual Property, Data Protection, Cybersecurity, RegTech

JEL Classification: K, O, Q