Keynote Topic

Where Politics, Economics and Technology Collide

How AI and emerging technologies are changing power, governance and global security

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What to expect from this Keynote

Technology is changing more than how organisations work. It is reshaping how governments exercise authority, how economies develop and how nations compete.

In this keynote, Lord Mark Malloch-Brown examines AI and emerging technology through the lens of politics, economics and global power. Rather than focusing on the technical workings of AI, he explores its implications for governance, regulation, international security, development and competition between states. The keynote places technological change within a wider global story, helping audiences understand what innovation may mean for security, development and governance.

  • Debates about AI often focus on capability: what can the technology do? But its consequences will also be political and economic.

    Governments are regulating information, data and digital platforms while protecting national security and competitiveness. AI may disrupt established patterns of employment and development, while cyber capabilities, drones and autonomous systems are changing the balance between states. The decisions being made now will shape who benefits from innovation, who controls it and how societies respond.

  • Technology does not develop separately from politics. It reflects the interests and power structures of the societies creating and regulating it. Mark explores how governments approach technology with competing motives. Some seek to protect citizens, encourage innovation and establish safeguards. Others may use regulation to extend control or limit information.

    He considers the implications of AI for employment, development and global inequality. If technology changes how countries industrialise and create jobs, what does that mean for emerging economies and their growing populations?

    Mark also examines how cybersecurity, drones and autonomous systems are transforming international security and allowing smaller actors to challenge traditional power. This keynote offers a clear account of how technology is changing global governance—and why its most important consequences may be political rather than technical.

  • After this keynote, audiences will:

    • Understand the relationship between technological innovation and political power.

    • Recognise the interests shaping AI and digital regulation.

    • Consider how AI may affect employment, development and inequality.

    • Understand how emerging technologies are altering security and international competition.

    • Place innovation within its wider political and institutional context.

    • Gain a more informed view of AI governance.

Frequently asked Questions

  • No. Mark focuses on the political, economic and governance implications of technology rather than the technical systems themselves.

  • Technical speakers explain what AI can do. Mark examines how governments, institutions and societies may respond.

  • Yes. Mark explores the political motives and competing interests behind the regulation of technology, information and digital platforms.

  • Yes. It is particularly relevant to leaders who need to understand the political and regulatory environment surrounding innovation.

  • Yes. The keynote can emphasise AI governance, cybersecurity, employment, development or global security.

Best suited for

  • AI and technology conferences

  • Innovation and digital-transformation events

  • Technology leadership teams

  • Cybersecurity and risk audiences

  • Government and policy forums

  • Boards considering AI governance

Enquire about this keynote

Looking for a keynote that places AI and technology within their wider political context? Mark helps audiences understand how innovation is changing governance, economic power and international security.

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