GAIGI Geneva AI Trade Forum | Geneva, 2026

12th February 2026

Type of work:

Behind closed-doors forum with top policy makers from the Global South.

Topic:

How do we move from regulatory fragmentation of AI to true operational interoperability?

Client:

Geneva AI Governance Institute (GAIGI)

Nik Gowing moderated the very first Geneva AI Trade Forum with the Geneva AI Governance Institute (GAIGI).

It brought together in Geneva, behind closed-doors, policymakers, regulators and industry leaders ahead of the World Trade Organization’s next Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaoundé.

Nik challenged participants on how to build an interoperable, operational and inclusive governance framework for artificial intelligence, for the benefit of government and business alike.

“Nik Gowing’s engagement was invaluable throughout the GAIGI planning phase and event execution. He kept our diverse group honest and on track, turning this inaugural forum into a genuine proof of concept. His contribution ensures continuity for our governance initiatives. ” ️

— Dr. Axel Mazolo, DBA | Founder, GAIGI

What we achieved

The focus was practical, not theoretical: how to handle the expected leap in AI engagement in the Global South and avoid fragmented rules that slow progress.

The recommendation to governments and their officials? Work speedily to build solutions with “diplomatic Lego bricks” and keep it simple.

The dialogue prioritised candid discussion and actionable steps that could translate into real policy cooperation across borders.

The Outcome?

In just seven days the GAIGI published the first open-source crosswalk. It unified seven AI regulatory frameworks in a single structured dataset.

This marks a decisive step in structuring a roadmap. It is a catalyst for new global governance architectures for artificial intelligence.

About GAIGI

The Geneva AI Governance Institute (GAIGI) convenes policymakers, regulators and industry leaders to address the practical challenges of governing artificial intelligence across borders.

Its forums and closed-door dialogues focus on regulatory interoperability — helping governments align approaches, avoid fragmentation, and develop workable frameworks that support innovation, trade and economic inclusion.

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