Navigating the new tech frontier: Governance in a fragmented world
Schive and Banin call for a shift in perspective, viewing governance not as a hindrance but as essential infrastructure for innovation. They advocate for adaptive, inclusive, and globally coordinated governance frameworks that can keep pace with technological advancements.
In their latest article, Miriam Schive and Elana Banin from the World Economic Forum delve into the complex interplay between rapidly advancing technologies and the current geopolitical landscape. They argue that innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and synthetic biology are outpacing existing governance frameworks, leading to heightened risks of misuse and unintended consequences.
The authors highlight real-world examples where these technologies have already begun to disrupt societal norms and security structures. AI-powered drones are altering the dynamics of warfare, while generative AI tools are being used to spread disinformation, undermining democratic processes. The dual-use nature of many emerging technologies—where tools designed for civilian purposes can be repurposed for military or coercive applications—adds another layer of complexity to the governance challenge.
Schive and Banin emphasise that without urgent and coordinated action, the governance of frontier technologies could become another casualty of strategic rivalry and domestic political polarisation. They advocate for adaptive, inclusive, and globally coordinated governance frameworks that can keep pace with technological advancements. This includes codifying human control over critical systems, modernising global rules to address dual-use technologies, and investing in resilience through independent oversight bodies and cross-border safety research.
Why Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) should engage
For CSOs, this article is a crucial read. It underscores the significant role they can play in shaping the governance of emerging technologies. The authors highlight the importance of inclusive global dialogues and the need for diverse perspectives in creating legitimate and sustainable governance frameworks. CSOs can contribute by advocating for transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights in the deployment of frontier technologies. Their involvement is vital to ensure that technological advancements align with public interest and do not exacerbate existing inequalities or create new forms of oppression.
To explore the full depth of Schive and Banin’s analysis and their recommendations for navigating the challenges of emerging technologies, read the complete article on the World Economic Forum’s website: Frontier technology governance key in a fragmented world
