In the European Commission’s Secretariat-General-ran Masterclass AI series, on 8 October 2025, REMIT researchers Katleen Gabriels (University of Maastricht) and Paul Timmers (KU Leuven) jointly presented an interactive seminar on AI and Reputational Risks. The event was very well-attended by over 250 European Commission policymakers and administrative staff.
Paul Timmers took the geopolitical/states perspective and Katleen Gabriels the individual/behavioural perspective. They presented an illustrative set of examples of AI and reputational risks, analysed some root causes, addressed action including public policy, personal awareness and AI skills training to positively handle such risks, and finished with their outlook on the future. They referred to the REMIT project in particular the research on AI and international relations, such as regards power and perceptions in international AI governance.
The audience interacted online, posing comments and questions, such as about path dependency, the nature of risks, and the window of opportunity for Europe to act in AI. Coincidentally, during the seminar the European Commission adopted two strategies to ensure Europe stays ahead, driving AI adoption in key industries and putting Europe at the forefront of AI-driven science: the Apply AI Strategy and the AI in Science Strategy
Seeing the reactions of the audience, this seminar was highly appreciated!