According to the article, artificial intelligence governance has become deeply entwined with global power dynamics, marking a new era in geopolitics. As countries race to control AI development, regulation is no longer just a domestic policy issue—it’s a strategic lever in a broader contest for economic and national security dominance. Nations are increasingly viewing AI not just as a technological asset, but as a “geopolitical weapon” that can shift global power balances.
The author argues that this geopolitical tension plays out across three dimensions: data sovereignty, compute capacity, and regulatory influence. Countries are working to localize AI infrastructure (data centers, chip production) to avoid dependence on foreign suppliers, while also crafting rules that reflect their political and economic values. This trend is fueling AI nationalism—where states prioritize self-sufficiency and strategic control over open, global AI ecosystems.
Another concern highlighted is the emerging “governance divide”: different regions are proposing different models of AI regulation, which may not align neatly. For example, the EU is pushing for human-rights–based regulation, while China may emphasize state control and security. This fragmentation could make global cooperation difficult, especially when it comes to setting common standards for AI safety, export controls, and dual-use technologies.
Finally, the piece suggests that the stakes go beyond just regulation of software—and extend to the supply chain of AI: from minerals critical for chips to data infrastructure. As a result, effective AI governance won’t just involve tech policy, but economic strategy, national security planning, and multilateral diplomacy. According to the author, countries that fail to align their governance approach with strategic AI capabilities risk ceding influence in what may become the most important technology race of the 21st century.
