In recent years, impressive AI systems have captured global attention. From breakthroughs in science to applications in business, AI is no longer a distant possibility, but already shaping our world. As the technology grows, so do the stakes. How can we ensure AI delivers positive impact rather than unintended harm?

In this keynote, I explore the future of AI through three guiding questions, blending concrete examples with a discussion of the opportunities and risks ahead.

Is AI truly going to change our world?
Critics often argue that AI is “just predicting the next word,” that it doesn’t truly understand concepts, and that current breakthroughs are limited to narrow, single-domain applications. Believers, on the other hand, point to impressive successes such as AlphaFold solving protein structures, AI winning gold medals in mathematics Olympiads, and the widespread adoption of chatbots that democratize access to knowledge and services. Looking forward, frontier AI promises humanoid robots, world models, automatic coding systems, and even the long-discussed prospect of artificial superintelligence. The real debate is not whether AI will change the world, but how profoundly and in what ways.

Will the impact of AI be positive or negative?
Already, AI is creating tangible benefits across science, healthcare, finance, and business. Yet risks are equally real. Organizations face challenges such as biased pricing models, chatbots that hallucinate, and AI systems making poor operational decisions. Looking ahead, frontier AI raises concerns ranging from cybersecurity threats to nuclear or biochemical risks. And in the long-term, the rise of artificial superintelligence introduces existential considerations that require careful thought and planning.

What is needed to maximize positive impact?
Ensuring AI benefits society requires action on multiple fronts. We need to research and manage risks across three levels: immediate but smaller organizational risks, near-future frontier risks, and long-term existential risks. Collaborate and bridge industry, academia, and policy to foster knowledge sharing. And finally, we need to break the “AI bubble” in which practitioners often operate: many people, outside the sector of AI, have little awareness of AI’s potential and pitfalls. Broad engagement and communication are key to creating a future where AI serves the collective good.

This keynote combines real-world examples, lively debate, and strategic insight, giving executives a clear view of the opportunities, risks, and steps needed to guide AI toward a positive impact.

Format: Typically 45–60 minutes, with optional extended Q&A or interactive discussion.

Target audience: Executives, senior leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

Language: Delivered in English (EN) or Dutch (NL).