Abstract
The governance of artificial intelligence (AI) is a critical international issue with profound implications for global security, equity and sustainability. Major AI powers, such as the United States, China, and the European Union, dominate the development of AI technologies. This concentration marginalises the “Global South” nations in shaping AI norms and accessing AI’s benefits. AI superpowers increasingly priorities AI as a strategic asset for defense, intelligence, and economic competitiveness over collaboration. AI poses risks to global stability, including its dual-use nature in military and surveillance technologies. The “runaway AI” risk adds a new dimension to the security dilemmas, where containment strategies must balance innovation with precaution. Regarding sustainability, AI holds significant potential to mitigate climate change through innovations in energy efficiency, resource management, and disaster response. However, geopolitical competition often prioritizes national interests over global cooperation. Energy-intensive AI technologies drive unsustainable practices, from data center proliferation to the unchecked expansion of large language models. It remains to be seen whether multilateral frameworks, such as those championed by the UN or regional alliances, can harmonize governance efforts while addressing local needs. Effective governance is key to harmonising AI’s environmental impact with geopolitical interests. By focusing on these intersections, the paper argues that AI governance is not only a technical or ethical challenge but also a geopolitical battleground. It underscores the necessity of integrating geopolitical analysis into AI governance discourse to navigate the complex interplay of national interests, global challenges, and the shared responsibility for a just and sustainable future.
Presenters
Maciej BazelaProfessor, Social and Political Environment, IPADE Business School, Distrito Federal, Mexico
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Geopolítics, AI, Social Equity, Environmental Sustainability
