Generative Artificial Intelligence, Musical Heritage and the Construction of Peace Narratives: A Case Study in Mali

2026-01-21

AI Summary

This work proposes a participatory framework embedding generative artificial intelligence within cultural reflexivity to address ethnic tensions and cultural fragmentation in Mali. By fostering human-AI co-creation that integrates local linguistic corpora and traditional musical elements, the approach supports the reconstruction of indigenous musical narratives while upholding cultural authenticity. The methodology amplifies local voices, strengthens cultural sovereignty, and fosters social cohesion through a pathway of “symbolic diplomacy” rather than cultural homogenization. Empirical implementation reveals critical challenges—including data scarcity, algorithmic transparency, and copyright ethics—offering both an innovative paradigm and reflective insights for AI-driven revitalization of intangible cultural heritage.

Technology Category

Humans and AI: Game Design — Procedural Content Generation & StorytellingPhilosophy and Ethics of AI: Artificial General IntelligenceNatural Language Processing: Generation

Application Category

Social Networks and Social Media: Generative AI / large language models and their impact on social systemsEconomics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Economic ramifications for generative AI infrastructure and applicationsResponsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy

Abstract

This study explores the capacity of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) to contribute to the construction of peace narratives and the revitalization of musical heritage in Mali. The study has been made in a political and social context where inter-community tensions and social fractures motivate a search for new symbolic frameworks for reconciliation. The study empirically explores three questions: (1) how Gen AI can be used as a tool for musical creation rooted in national languages and traditions; (2) to what extent Gen AI systems enable a balanced hybridization between technological innovation and cultural authenticity; and (3) how AI-assisted musical co-creation can strengthen social cohesion and cultural sovereignty. The experimental results suggest that Gen AI, embedded in a culturally conscious participatory framework, can act as a catalyst for symbolic diplomacy, amplifying local voices instead of standardizing them. However, challenges persist regarding the availability of linguistic corpora, algorithmic censorship, and the ethics of generating compositions derived from copyrighted sources.

Problem

• Generative Artificial Intelligence
• Musical Heritage
• Peace Narratives
• Cultural Authenticity
• Social Cohesion

Innovation

• Generative Artificial Intelligence
• Musical Heritage
• Peace Narratives
• Cultural Authenticity
• AI-assisted Co-creation