2024 in review: The key topics driving international discourse on AI regulation

Artificial intelligence regulation emerged as a major policy focus in 2024, with the European Union finalizing its AI Act and U.S. agencies implementing new executive orders on AI safety.

Key regulatory developments: The past year marked a shift from theoretical discussions about AI governance to concrete policy actions across major jurisdictions.

• The European Union passed comprehensive AI regulations that will shape global standards
• U.S. government agencies began implementing the White House’s executive order on AI safety
• The Nobel Prize committees sparked debates about AI’s role in academic and creative pursuits

Market concentration concerns: Rules and oversight could inadvertently strengthen large tech companies’ dominance in AI development and deployment.

• Current regulatory frameworks may create compliance burdens that smaller companies struggle to meet
• A “global patchwork” of different rules across jurisdictions particularly disadvantages startups and smaller firms
• Experts suggest policies should balance safety requirements with maintaining market competition

Global equity challenges: The international dialogue on AI governance has largely overlooked the needs and perspectives of developing nations.

• Many countries lack resources for implementing AI safeguards while pursuing digital transformation
• Funding is needed to support responsible AI deployment alongside expanded digital access
• Current regulatory frameworks primarily reflect developed nations’ priorities and capabilities

Democratic implications: AI systems pose emerging challenges to civil liberties and democratic institutions beyond misinformation concerns.

• New governance approaches are needed to protect democratic values and individual rights
• The technology’s impact on civil society requires fresh regulatory paradigms
• Experts emphasize the need to address AI’s broader societal effects, not just technical safety

Geopolitical dynamics: Control over AI infrastructure and data resources is becoming central to international power relations.

• Data center locations and access to computing resources shape global AI development
• The U.S. faces pressure to develop “data center diplomacy” strategies
• International partnerships around AI infrastructure could influence future geopolitical alignments

Strategic regulatory outlook: As AI governance evolves, policymakers must balance innovation, safety, and equitable access while preventing market concentration and protecting democratic values. The challenge lies in crafting frameworks that address immediate concerns while remaining flexible enough to adapt to rapid technological change.