AI at the Institute

The Geneva Graduate Institute was founded in 1927. At the time, it was the world's first academic institution devoted exclusively to the study of international affairs. Since then, the Institute has pioneered research on the interplay between technology and international relations. 

From military armament to nuclear deterrence or autonomous weapons systems, technology has always played a prominent role in the history of international relations, primarily because of the strong link between technological innovation, security, and power. More recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force, redefining power dynamics and diplomatic interactions.

« With the significant challenges that lie ahead, we must create opportunities not only for collective exploration and understanding, but also for the deployment of new visions, constructive solutions, and propositions for desirable, sustainable, inclusive, and plural futures. Our expertise and research in the social sciences allow us to nurture these visions and propositions, which in turn must guide the development of current and future technologies. »

mls-round

Marie-Laure Salles, Director of the Geneva Graduate Institute

Teaching AI to Graduate Students and Executive Education Professionals
 

Alongside its disciplinary M.A. and Ph.D. programs in Anthropology and Sociology, International Economics, International History and Politics, International Law, and International Relations/Political Science, the Master in International and Development Studies explores the multiple geopolitical and societal implications of technology and AI in its seven specializations: Conflict, Peace and Security; Environment and Sustainability; Gender, Race and Diversity; Global Health; Human Rights and Humanitarianism; Mobility, Migration and Borders; and Sustainable Trade and Finance. AI and data-driven methods are also part of the curriculum, including coding languages such Python and R. A substantial number of its Applied Research Projects include a technology or AI-related component. 

 

Each summer, the Institute offers a dedicated program on digital technologies, which dissects the impacts of digital technologies and AI on global issues, and fosters a nuanced understanding of digital technologies in international affairs. It includes sessions on AI for peace mediation, disinformation,  cybersecurity, and the gender divide.

In parallel, the Institute recently launched the Executive Education Upskill Series. These short courses are designed to train diplomats, civil servants, and managers in the latest and most relevant technological tools and practices. 

Conducting Transdisciplinary Research on and with AI
 

The Institute's research mission is to produce knowledge that fosters a better understanding of international affairs. Research on technology is abundant, reflecting the wide variety of societal, environmental, and geopolitical impacts of technology. The Institute's transdisciplinary approach, involving collaborations with leading academic institutions, ensures comprehensive research across these domains. The list below offers an overview of four AI research projects conducted at the Institute, though it is not intended to be comprehensive. 
 

Research Centre

Centre for Digital Humanities and Multilateralism

Renewing the study of diplomacy, multilateralism, and international relations through the methods of the digital humanities.
DISCOVER
Research Project

Artificial Intelligence For Monitoring Malnutrition

Introducing a low-cost, household-operated AI tool that uses image-based analysis to monitor undernutrition and provide real-time nutritional assessment.
DISCOVER
Research Project

Digital Sovereignty: Mobility, Identification, Inclusion

Examining digital sovereignty and border dynamics in global governance
Find out more
PhD Project

Beyond The Binary: How AI Systems Redefine What It Means To Be Human Under International Humanitarian Law

As artificial intelligence (AI) systems increasingly influence legally relevant military decisions, a fundamental question arises: what role is left for humans?
Find out more

APPLIED RESEARCH PROJECTS

Applied Research Projects bring together students, faculty, and external partners to address pressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research. Working closely with international organisations, governments, NGOs, and the private sector, these projects combine academic rigour with practical impact, delivering evidence-based insights and innovative solutions to real-world policy questions. Below are two examples of AI-focused Applied Research Projects. You can explore many more in our ARP repository. 

Applied Research Project

AI For The SDGs: Leveraging AI And Social Investor Engagement

This report explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
LEARN MORE
Applied Research Project

Beyond Code: The Battle For Influence In AI’s Global Rulebook

This research explores the challenges CSOs face in AI governance, focusing on the EU’s AI Act and the Council of Europe’s AI Convention
LEARN MORE

Outreach Expertise
 

The Institute shares its research with policy- and decision-makers, and the public at large, through a wealth of events, videos, podcasts, its digital presence on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, as well as its contributions to policy dialogues through its Geneva Policy Outlook. 

AI infrastructure and the New Geopolitics of Industry
The University in the Age of AI: A Global Perspective
AI Geopolitical Implications for Business, Government, and Society | AI House Davos
Artificial Intelligence and its impact on our daily lives | What Matters Today

CONTACT US
 

The Tech Hub is the Institute's focal point for AI. We bring together expertise from across our community — and from beyond our walls — to guide the ethical and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence, keeping humanity and the planet at the centre. Across teaching, research, and administration, we equip every member of our community with the skills, critical judgement, and confidence to make the most of these technologies, while remaining true to our values of peace, equity, and sustainability. Contact us: techhub@graduateinstitute.ch