CPA UK Hosts AI in Security Workshop for Over 30 International Delegates at UK Parliament

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the global landscape, presenting both immense opportunities and significant challenges, particularly in the realm of security and democracy. Recognizing the need for international collaboration and informed policymaking, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK (CPA UK), in partnership with Chatham House, convened a pivotal workshop from January 28th to 30th, 2025, in Westminster, London. This workshop, titled “AI in Security,” brought together thirty parliamentarians from fifteen Commonwealth legislatures spanning Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. The diverse representation aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of AI’s impact across varied geopolitical contexts and facilitate the development of effective strategies for navigating this evolving technological frontier. Saint Lucia’s delegation included Honourable Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, and Honourable Jeremiah Norbert, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Home Affairs, Crime Prevention and Persons with Disabilities.

The workshop’s agenda delved into critical issues at the intersection of AI and global security. Key topics included the proliferation of AI-enabled disinformation campaigns, the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, the implications of AI for defense strategies, and the ongoing development of international frameworks for responsible AI development and deployment. The forum provided a platform for parliamentarians to exchange experiences, share insights, and collaboratively explore strategies to counter emerging threats. A central focus was bolstering democratic resilience in the face of these rapidly evolving technologies. Discussions emphasized the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with AI while simultaneously harnessing its potential to enhance security and promote democratic values.

The workshop featured contributions from prominent figures in the UK Parliament and leading organizations in the field of AI and security. Feryal Clark MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and Chi Onwurah MP, Chair of the Science Innovation and Technology Committee, provided valuable perspectives from the UK government’s perspective. Their contributions highlighted the UK’s commitment to addressing the complex challenges posed by AI and its dedication to fostering international collaboration in this critical area. The inclusion of representatives from esteemed organizations such as the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), and The Alan Turing Institute further enriched the discussions with expert insights and diverse perspectives.

The involvement of these organizations underscored the multi-faceted nature of the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change brought expertise in governance and policy development, while RUSI contributed its deep understanding of defense and security issues. The Alan Turing Institute, a renowned center for data science and artificial intelligence research, provided crucial technical expertise and insights into the latest advancements in AI. This collaborative approach, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, fostered a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between AI, security, and democracy.

Sarah Dickson, Chief Executive of CPA UK, emphasized the timeliness and importance of the workshop. She highlighted the need for parliamentarians, policymakers, and experts to collectively examine the vast opportunities and challenges presented by AI through a global security lens. The collaboration with Chatham House, a highly respected and leading think tank, further enhanced the credibility and impact of the workshop. Dickson emphasized the critical nature of the discussions on topics such as disinformation, digital colonialism, and the implications of AI for international law.

The workshop served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of AI’s profound impact on governance and security worldwide. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from across the Commonwealth, the event promoted the development of actionable solutions on a global scale. The exchange of experiences and best practices, coupled with the insights from leading experts, equipped parliamentarians with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of AI and its implications for security and democracy in their respective nations. This collaborative approach is crucial for ensuring that the development and deployment of AI technologies serve to enhance global security and strengthen democratic institutions.