Artificial intelligence is rapidly being integrated into the daily work of diplomats and civil servants, from policy analysis and strategic foresight to negotiation preparation and public diplomacy. While these tools offer new opportunities to enhance decision-making and diplomatic effectiveness, they also raise critical questions regarding governance, institutional safeguards, and responsible use.
This discussion will explore how AI is reshaping diplomatic practices and what this transformation means for institutions, professionals, and global cooperation. While AI systems can process vast amounts of data and support complex analysis, their increasing use also raises concerns about over-reliance, the erosion of human judgment, and the ability to build trust in diplomatic contexts.
The discussion will open with insights from a survey on AI in diplomatic negotiations, alongside lessons from executive education programmes on AI for diplomats and civil servants. It will also explore emerging practices, risks, and capacity gaps, including how diplomats can be best prepared and what an effective AI literacy curriculum could entail.
Speakers
- Peter Maurer, Basel Institute on Governance, President
- Claude Bruderlein, Harvard University
- Karin Voodla, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Estonia
Ambassador Thomas Gürber, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the United Nations Office in Geneva, will deliver the opening remarks.
Moderator
- Jérôme Duberry, Director, Tech Hub
About the event
This discussion contributes to ongoing efforts to strengthen Geneva’s role as a global hub for dialogue and capacity-building on responsible and human-centred AI. As the host of major international initiatives such as the AI for Good Global Summit, Geneva plays a key role in shaping the future of AI governance.
In partnerhship with the Centre for Digital Humanities and Multilateralism & Executive Education