Workshop on “Digital and AI Governance at a Time of Geopolitical Upheaval”
The workshop, "Digital and AI Governance at a Time of Geopolitical Upheaval," convenes in Leiden, NLD, to explore the complex interplay between digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and the evolving global geopolitical landscape. This event provides a platform for in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancements amidst shifting international power dynamics. Participants will engage with critical questions surrounding the governance of digital spaces and AI, considering how these domains are influenced by and, in turn, influence geopolitical tensions. The workshop aims to foster a nuanced understanding of how states and international bodies are navigating the ethical, security, and economic implications of digital and AI proliferation in an era of heightened global competition.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
The governance of digital technologies and artificial intelligence has become a central concern in international relations. As these technologies advance, they reshape economic power, national security, and societal structures, leading to both cooperation and significant friction among nations. The workshop's focus on "geopolitical upheaval" underscores the urgency of understanding how digital and AI governance frameworks are being tested and transformed by current global events.
This topic is particularly salient given the increasing weaponization of digital tools and AI in international conflicts, as well as the race among major powers to establish dominance in these fields. The outcomes of digital and AI governance discussions will profoundly impact future global stability, human rights, and economic development. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, academics, and practitioners seeking to mitigate risks and harness the benefits of these transformative technologies.
The discussions at this workshop will contribute to a broader understanding of how different countries approach digital sovereignty, data protection, and AI ethics. By examining these diverse perspectives, participants can identify potential areas for international collaboration and anticipate future flashpoints in the digital realm. The insights generated will be vital for developing resilient and equitable governance structures that can withstand geopolitical pressures.
How to prepare
To prepare for this workshop, participants should familiarize themselves with the foundational concepts of digital governance and AI ethics. Understanding the various national approaches to regulating these technologies, including different models of data protection and AI development, will be beneficial. A review of recent geopolitical events and their impact on international technological cooperation or competition will also provide valuable context.
Consider exploring frameworks for analyzing complex international issues, such as those discussed in the Model Diplomat lesson on 'dynamic-analysis'. This will help in dissecting the multifaceted challenges presented by the intersection of technology and geopolitics. Additionally, understanding the concept of 'cyber-sovereignty' and its implications for international law and state behavior will be crucial for engaging in informed discussions.
Participants might also benefit from examining the roles of various stakeholders in digital and AI governance, including governments, corporations, civil society organizations, and international bodies. The Model Diplomat lesson on 'what-is-stakeholder-mapping' can offer a useful methodology for identifying and understanding the interests and influence of these diverse actors. This comprehensive preparation will enable a more robust contribution to the workshop's objectives.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 4 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
NetherlandsAs the host nation, NLD is positioned to facilitate discussions on international cooperation and responsible innovation in digital and AI governance.
Role in topic
NLD, as the location of the workshop, plays a key role in fostering international dialogue on digital and AI governance. Its commitment to multilateralism and its position within the European Union often lead it to advocate for human-centric and rights-based approaches to technology regulation. NLD is also a hub for technological innovation and research, providing a practical context for theoretical discussions.
United StatesUSA generally advocates for market-driven innovation with a focus on national security and economic competitiveness in digital and AI.
Role in topic
USA is a leading developer of AI and digital technologies, often emphasizing private sector innovation and a less prescriptive regulatory approach. Its perspective is shaped by concerns over national security, economic competitiveness, and the protection of intellectual property. USA's approach often involves leveraging its technological advantage while seeking to establish international norms that align with its values.
ChinaCHN prioritizes state control and national security in its digital and AI governance, often integrating these technologies into broader societal management.
Role in topic
CHN represents a distinct model of digital and AI governance, characterized by strong state oversight, extensive data collection, and integration of technology into social credit systems. Its focus is on national stability, economic growth, and technological self-sufficiency. CHN's approach often raises questions about privacy, human rights, and the potential for technological authoritarianism on a global scale.
GermanyDEU, within the EU framework, champions robust data protection, ethical AI development, and regulatory frameworks that prioritize citizen rights.
Role in topic
DEU, as a prominent member of the European Union, is a strong advocate for comprehensive data protection regulations and ethical guidelines for AI. Its stance is often characterized by a desire to balance innovation with strong safeguards for individual rights and democratic values. DEU's influence is significant in shaping EU-wide policies that impact global digital and AI governance.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
Geopolitical Visions of Digital and AI Governance
Key players
- United States
Leads private-sector innovation model and controls key AI compute and frontier labs.
- China
Advances cyber-sovereignty model and Global AI Governance Initiative.
- Germany
Drives EU regulatory vision via AI Act and data protection frameworks.
FranceHosts AI Action Summit process and pushes sovereign European AI capacity.
IndiaPromotes Digital Public Infrastructure as an alternative model for the Global South.
United KingdomOriginated the AI Safety Summit track and AI Safety Institute model.
Geopolitical Contestations over Digital and AI Governance
Key players
- United States
Uses export controls and alliances to shape the AI compute frontier.
- China
Contests US-led order through indigenous tech push and counter-sanctions.
RussiaChampions state-sovereignty cyber norms and contests Western platform power.
- Netherlands
Pivotal node in semiconductor supply chain via ASML lithography controls.
JapanAligns with US chip controls while leading Hiroshima AI Process at G7.
South KoreaCritical memory-chip producer balancing US alignment and China market exposure.
Geopolitical Conflicts and Digital and AI Governance
Key players
UkraineFrontline case for wartime use of commercial tech, AI targeting, and cyber defense.
- Russia
Principal actor in offensive cyber operations and information warfare.
- United States
Supplies frontier AI and cyber capabilities and shapes coalition responses.
IsraelOperationalizes AI-assisted targeting systems under scrutiny in Gaza.
- China
Accused of large-scale cyber pre-positioning and shapes LAWS debates at CCW.
SwitzerlandHosts CCW LAWS negotiations and Geneva-based IHL standard-setting.
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for Workshop on “Digital and AI Governance at a Time of Geopolitical Upheaval”.
Recent reporting to ground your prep
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance
NetherlandsCountry dossier
United StatesCountry dossier
ChinaCountry dossier
GermanyCountry dossier
FranceCountry dossier
IndiaCountry dossier
United KingdomCountry dossier
RussiaCountry dossier
JapanCountry dossier
South KoreaCountry dossier
UkraineCountry dossier
IsraelCountry dossier
SwitzerlandCountry dossier