From innovation to governance and access, artificial intelligence is increasingly dominated by a few powerful corporations, restricting others’ ability to utilise proprietary infrastructure and data resources. This threatens AI inclusiveness, as control over not only the means of production but also platforms, data, algorithms, and regulatory frameworks is concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving the rest dependent on the gatekeeping of dominant corporations. Such centralised control over AI—from the design of models to their final deployment— limits individual and collective freedoms, exacerbates existing inequalities, and undermines democratic principles, creating conditions that risk enabling forms of techno-fascism and ultimately harming collective welfare.
This session will examine the growing dominance of powerful corporations over AI innovation, governance, and access, alongside the consequent conditions leading to emerging techno-feudalism. The session will analyse growing techno-feudalism’s profound impacts on individuals and corporations, including the erosion of freedoms, deepening inequalities, and the normalisation of techno-fascist tendencies. The discussion will also focus on strategies and solutions to overcome existing dominance dynamics, highlighting the need for open access, transparency, and inclusive governance models that democratise AI development and deployment, empower diverse communities, and protect collective welfare.
Discussion Themes:
- How can we break down the concentration of power in AI without simply replacing one dominant player with another?
- Is corporate-led AI on a dangerous path towards techno-fascism, and if so, what concrete actions can we take to divert its course?
- In what ways could AI genuinely become the great equaliser, creating a more level playing field for everyone?
- What would it genuinely take to democratise AI development—not just in name, but in who owns, controls, and benefits from AI?