SCGA State of the World: Emerging & Disruptive Technologies

Emerging and disruptive technologies are radically reshaping our societies. The ubiquity of digital data and proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our economies, social interactions, privacy, government services, policing and border management, intelligence and military capabilities, and urban and natural environments, to name just a few examples.

These processes are inherently transnational but also hold important implications for Scotland. For example, a new UK supercomputer will be built in Edinburgh in the future and Scotland is also home to a vibrant space industry, including advanced data analytics. As a result, Scotland has the potential to be at the forefront of debates concerning advanced technologies at local, national, and global scales.

This expert roundtable brings together leading voices to assess the opportunities and challenges posed by developments in AI and advanced digital technologies for Scotland and the world. What technologies, applications, and industries are most critical to national and global wellbeing, prosperity, and security? What impact are they having in Scotland? What societal and ethical risks and challenges do they pose? And what should Scotland do to be a leader in these fields now and in the future?

Mr Chris Boyland – Head of AI and Digital Economy, Scottish Government

Dr Cailean Gallagher – Lecturer, Business School, University of St Andrews

Professor Marion Thain – Director, Edinburgh Futures Institute

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Scottish Council on Global Affairs