Expert predictions for advanced artificial intelligence have shortened from decades to potentially within this decade, while the scientific community is grappling with unprecedented risks that could emerge from increasingly capable AI systems.

This week we are exploring how advanced AI capabilities are projected to evolve through continued scaling, what systemic risks these developments pose to society, and what mitigation strategies are available to policymakers.

Sample reading
Unresolved debates about the future of AI - by Helen Toner (2025)

This week we will explore the evolving landscape of AI regulation across major jurisdictions, focusing on how countries are balancing innovation imperatives with safety concerns through different regulatory philosophies.

We'll study the spectrum from principles-based to rules-based approaches, and analyse the differences in approach between the EU, US and China.

Sample reading
From Principles to Rules: A Regulatory Approach for Frontier AI by Schuett et al. (2024) 

To understand AI governance in Europe, we need to get to know the broader digital regulatory ecosystem that preceded and shaped it.

This week steps back from AI-specific policies to explore Europe's comprehensive digital governance strategy, including the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Sample reading
Building CERN for AI: An institutional blueprint by Centre for Future Generations (2025). 

While the EU has established comprehensive AI governance through the AI Act, it now confronts the harder task of building competitive AI infrastructure and industrial capacity.

This week examines Europe's strategic response through the AI Continent Action Plan, exploring how the EU aims to achieve technological sovereignty while maintaining its distinctive approach of trustworthy, human-centric AI aligned with democratic values.

Sample reading
The AI Continent Action Plan | Shaping Europe’s digital future by European Commission (2025)

AI has become a key battleground in global competition between major powers.

We'll analyse how AI governance decisions are now increasingly driven by national security concerns, and explore whether export controls and technology restrictions are effective tools for managing both AI risks and international competition.

Sample reading
The EU's AI Power Play: Between Deregulation and Innovation by Allen & Goldston Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (2025)

AI governance extends far beyond national policy-making. It involves a complex ecosystem of international organisations, standard-setting bodies, civil society groups, and corporate actors who shape how AI is developed and deployed globally.

This week we will explore who has influence beyond national governments.

Sample reading
What should be internationalised in AI governance? by Dennis et al. (2024) 

As AI technologies continue to advance, their integration into the global economy is expected to have far-reaching consequences.

This week examines the economic impact of AI, including the potential for rapid economic growth, changes in labour markets, and the challenges posed by economic concentration.

Sample reading
Is AI already shaking up labor market? — Harvard Gazette by Deming et al. (2025)