Marietje Schaake

Marietje Schaake is a globally recognised authority on AI policy, technology governance, and the intersection of digital innovation with democracy. Renowned for her thought leadership and eloquence, she has become a pivotal voice in addressing the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. With her expertise, Marietje empowers audiences to grasp the profound implications of technological advancements on governance and society.

Marietje’s career began with her election as a Member of the European Parliament (2009–2019), where she represented the Netherlands. During this time, she became an influential figure in European digital policy, advocating for transparency, innovation, and ethical technology use. As part of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe, she championed initiatives focused on regulating digital platforms, protecting democratic values, and ensuring fair global trade. After her parliamentary tenure, Marietje transitioned to academia, joining Stanford University as the International Policy Director at the Cyber Policy Center and an International Policy Fellow at the Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence. Her work at Stanford has deepened her impact on the intersection of policy and technology.

Her achievements include her appointment in 2023 to the United Nations Secretary-General’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body, where she addresses global challenges in AI regulation. In 2024, Marietje authored the critically acclaimed book The Tech Coup: How to Save Democracy from Silicon Valley, which explores the threats unregulated technology poses to democratic institutions. She is also a regular columnist for the Financial Times, where she continues to shape global discussions on AI, emerging technologies, and their societal implications.

As a keynote speaker, Marietje captivates audiences with her insights into the ethical governance of AI, the transformative potential of emerging technologies, and strategies for countering digital authoritarianism. Her ability to distil complex concepts into actionable insights ensures her presentations are both enlightening and impactful. By combining a deep understanding of policy with a commitment to democratic values, Marietje inspires organisations and leaders to navigate the digital age responsibly and effectively.