AI, Digital Ownership and Data Sovereignty
Dates
May 7, 2027
Length of Course
3 hours
Delivery Method
Online
Cost
$425 CAD
Summary
Explore how data has become a strategic economic resource, and how it underpins the development of AI systems and creates new forms of economic value and competitive advantage. Examine who owns and controls the data that AI systems use and generate, who can access it, and under what conditions. Understand the principles of data sovereignty, digital rights and data governance, including how cross-border data flows shape economic activity, innovation and national autonomy. Study national data strategies to understand ârulesâ and policy frameworks which shape the way organizations of different types interact with each other. Explore how emerging technologies such as blockchain, tokenization and stablecoins are transforming digital ownership, the representation and exchange of assets, and financial transactions. Consider the implications for businesses and governments as they navigate questions of data protection, regulatory authority, technological dependence and the governance of an increasingly interconnected digital economy.
Instructor
Ann Fitz-Gerald became the Director of the Balsillie School of International Affairs in August 2019 and has led the Schoolâs âTechnology Governance Initiativeâ since 2023. She has degrees in both commerce and political science from Queenâs University, and was the first civilian female to graduate from the Royal Military College of Canada. Before completing a PhD in the UK, she worked at the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre, NATO headquarters, and the North Atlantic Assembly.
She has worked at Kingâs College, London University and Cranfield University, where, before her move back to Canada, she was Director, Defence and Security Leadership at Cranfieldâs Defence Academy of the United Kingdom campus. Ann is a Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, a Fellow at McLaughlin College, York University and has served/still serves on a number of non-executive boards and in advisory roles for the British Government, the United Nations and the African Union.
Ann is widely published on issues concerning the governance of national security and has helped facilitate national security policies and strategies in a number of conflict-affected countries including Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, Sierra Leone, Nepal, Serbia, Nigeria and others. She has also supported internationally-sponsored peace talks, including the Sudan-South Sudan peace talks led by former South African President Thabo Mbeki - efforts for which the Government of Canada awarded Ann with the Queenâs Diamond Jubilee Medal.
In December 2024, Ann was recognized for her leadership of the Balsillie School of International Affairs and awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Format
A single three-hour live online session. Interactive polls and chat throughout, with a live Q&A; one short break.
Audience
This masterclass is open to anyone â in the public sector, non-profits, or industry â who wants a clear, credible introduction to these topics. No technical background required.