AI dominates Davos agenda: Can Europe become a leader?

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND — At the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF), artificial intelligence (AI) transitioned from a purely economic driver to a primary pillar of technological sovereignty and geopolitical strategy.

Cathy Li, head of the AI Centre of Excellence at the WEF, noted that tech autonomy is no longer just a possibility but is already happening as nations navigate a tense geopolitical climate. The concept of "AI sovereignty"—a country’s capacity to independently control and govern its own systems—has become a priority for world leaders. However, Li emphasized that this should not lead to isolation, but rather to strategic interdependence through targeted international partnerships and domestic investments.

Europe’s Unique Opportunity in AI

While the U.S. and China currently dominate the landscape, Davos tech leaders highlighted a significant opportunity for Europe. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang pointed to the continent’s "incredibly strong manufacturing base" as a foundation for building AI infrastructure, particularly in robotics. Li added that Europe possesses a formidable talent pool and robust regulations, though she acknowledged that the fragmented nature of the European market often drives startups toward larger markets like the United States.

Energy as the Deciding Factor

The massive electrical requirements for data centers running AI systems represent a significant challenge. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated at the forum that energy costs will likely be the primary factor determining which nation wins the AI race. Li viewed this challenge as an opportunity to modernize aging energy systems with clean energy, benefiting society as a whole while supporting the growing AI ecosystem.

Ethical Considerations and the Future

As AI advances at an unprecedented rate, Li raised critical questions about its service to humanity beyond corporate profits. She specifically criticized leaders planning to reduce entry-level jobs due to AI, calling it a "massive mistake". Instead, she urged organizations to pair "AI-native" younger employees with experienced management to maximize returns. Li concluded that AI must not deepen the digital divide between the Global North and South, insisting that technology should be a driver to uplift all of humanity.

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