Amid the active digital transformation in Azerbaijan—from the introduction of e-government and the development of smart cities to the use of artificial intelligence in education and public administration—the question of not only what to implement, but also why and how, is becoming increasingly pressing. Technological progress opens new opportunities for the economy and society, but simultaneously poses complex ethical and philosophical challenges for states.

In this context, the perspective of experts who can combine technological thinking with a humanities perspective is particularly valuable. In an interview with AZERTAC, innovation and digital transformation expert Alejandro de Leon Moreno discusses how philosophical education helps to better understand the impact of technology on society, what principles should underpin Azerbaijan's digital policy, and what skills will be crucial for the younger generation in the digital age.

- How does your philosophical background help you understand the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation?

- My background in philosophy allows me to see technology not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a force that reshapes human relationships, creativity, and even our understanding of work. With the rise of artificial intelligence, concerns are legitimate: overreliance on machines can weaken critical thinking, effort, and human creativity.

At the same time, philosophy provides historical perspective. Every major technological shift — from the printing press to the Industrial Revolution and the internet — initially triggered fear and resistance. Yet each time, humanity adapted and used those tools to create new forms of opportunity and connection.

That perspective directly shapes how I lead my microfinance company, Microwd, which works with women in vulnerable communities across Nicaragua, Peru, and Mexico. Human contact remains essential. Trust, empathy, and guidance cannot be automated, which is why we maintain local teams who work directly with women on the ground.

Digital tools, however, unlock extraordinary possibilities. Even in remote areas, many women have smartphones. We help them turn that device into a gateway to opportunity — using social media to promote their businesses, designing logos and websites, navigating Google Maps, adopting digital payments, and tracking finances through simple tools like Excel.

When used wisely, digital transformation becomes a bridge, not a barrier. It allows an investor in Barcelona to support a woman entrepreneur in rural Nicaragua, or women entrepreneurs to connect, learn from one another, and build collective confidence.

From a philosophical perspective, technology itself is neutral. As the Stoic philosopher Epictetus said, it is not things themselves that disturb us, but our judgments about them. Technology gains its moral meaning from human intention. The real challenge is not resisting digital change, but ensuring it remains guided by human purpose — so technology serves people, not the other way around.

- Azerbaijan is actively adopting digital technologies. What philosophical principles should guide its digital policy?

- I would point to Stoicism as a particularly relevant framework for shaping ethical digital policy.

First, Stoicism reminds us that we cannot control external forces — such as the speed of technological change — but we can control our response. Policymakers should not resist innovation, but actively shape it with clear values and purpose. Technology should enhance human progress, not replace human agency.

Second, Stoicism emphasizes moderation. In the digital era, this means using data, automation, and AI efficiently, without sacrificing human judgment, empathy, or privacy. Efficiency must never come at the cost of dignity or trust.

Third, it stresses practical wisdom — the ability to make ethical decisions in complex situations. In digital policy, this means ensuring transparency, inclusion, and sustainability, so innovation empowers citizens rather than excluding them.

Without philosophical grounding, innovation becomes directionless. Ethical digital transformation requires moral reflection. True progress happens when technology aligns with virtue and contributes to a more just and humane society.

- What ethical issues are most relevant for Azerbaijan as an emerging economy?

- The most pressing ethical issues lie at the intersection of power and accountability. Digital transformation must be guided not only by innovation, but by justice, transparency, inclusion, and digital sovereignty.

As technology increases the influence of governments and large platforms, protecting data, ensuring fair access, and maintaining public trust become critical. Without these safeguards, digital transformation risks widening existing social and economic gaps instead of closing them.

- What skills will be critical for young professionals and leaders in Azerbaijan?

- The most important skills in the digital era are not only technical — they are deeply human.

From my experience working with women entrepreneurs across Latin America, success is driven by honesty, initiative, ambition, and resilience, combined with a willingness to serve one’s community.

Technology evolves faster than any curriculum. Those who thrive are curious, adaptable, and committed to lifelong learning. People who see change as an opportunity — not a threat — consistently outperform others.

At Microwd, I’ve seen this firsthand. Karla in Mexico used a 3D printer to create customized cookies and turn a small idea into a scalable business. María in Nicaragua began with a neighborhood grocery store and later developed an app that made her a key supplier to other supermarkets. These stories show that digital transformation becomes powerful when people are empowered with the right mindset and tools.

Equally important are communication and emotional intelligence — learning languages, speaking publicly, and working across cultures. Technology connects us globally, but empathy turns connection into collaboration.

The future belongs to those who combine digital competence with human depth — using technology not just to advance themselves, but to build communities and create meaningful impact.

- Which global digital trends are most relevant for Azerbaijan in the next 5–10 years?

- Two trends stand out. The first is digital inclusion. At Microwd, our fintech model is built around this principle. Technology can bring financial and digital services to people traditionally excluded — rural populations, individuals without collateral, or those with limited resources. When access becomes fast, affordable, and secure, entire communities can transform.

The second is artificial intelligence. Even on a limited scale, AI has completely reshaped how we operate at Microwd. It allows us to deliver personalized support to thousands of women without massive staffing costs, increasing efficiency and social impact. At a national level, AI can significantly improve public services, agriculture, mobility, taxation, and transparency.

However, technology must be paired with education and empathy. Digital literacy should start early, while vulnerable groups — including the elderly and rural populations — must be supported. Ensuring no one is left behind is not just a technical challenge, but a moral responsibility.

- Azerbaijan is investing in smart cities, including in Baku. What ethical principles should guide this process?

- The core principle is simple: put people at the center. Technology must remain a means, not an end.

I learned this lesson directly in my work. We once launched an app for microfinance clients that looked efficient on paper but failed in reality. Many women had limited data, weak connectivity, and little phone storage. The app became a burden. Meanwhile, WhatsApp and Facebook worked perfectly and were already trusted.

The ethical lesson was clear: digital infrastructure must reflect real lives, real constraints, and real values. Progress is not about more technology, but about the right technology, at the right time, in the right hands.

For smart cities — in Baku or anywhere — we must ask: Who is included? Who is excluded? Are we reducing inequality, or reinforcing it? Are we designing with communities, or for them?

- How can Azerbaijan build public trust and avoid a digital divide?

- Trust starts with a human-centered strategy. First, clear legal and ethical frameworks are essential. Strong protections for data privacy, AI governance, freedom of expression, and human creativity help citizens feel secure. Without that sense of protection, trust cannot grow.

Second, governments and businesses must demonstrate long-term vision — investing not only in infrastructure, but in research, innovation, and education, especially for youth. When people see technology creating real opportunity for society at large, acceptance follows naturally.

Third, the value of technology must be communicated in personal, empowering ways. In my work, digital tools only succeed when people understand them, trust them, and feel ownership over them.

Finally, access is uneven. Any national digital strategy must account for rural populations, limited connectivity, and lower digital literacy. Inclusion must be built into the design — otherwise, digital progress will deepen inequality instead of reducing it.