In episode #121, I catch up with my longtime friend Alex Moltzau, now serving as a Policy Officer – Seconded National Expert at the European Commission.

We had a wide-ranging conversation on the future of artificial intelligence, regulation, and global cooperation.

Topics include:

Alex’s background and journey - From social entrepreneurship to shaping AI policy at the European level — including his work on the AI Pact and regulatory sandboxes.

Reflections since 2020 - Revisiting lessons from the past few years and the idea of “500 days of AI and critical thinking.”

The EU AI Act

Why it was created and what problems it's designed to solve

Key provisions and goals

The balance between regulation and innovation in the European context

The AI Pact

How it came together

What companies are committing to

Its role in the broader regulatory landscape

U.S. vs. Europe: Two regulatory paths

Key differences and similarities in approach

How regulatory environments affect innovation

Implications for global competition in AI

Opportunities for collaboration despite diverging strategies

The future of AI and global governance

The need for international cooperation and the role of institutions like the UN

Ethical considerations in the development and deployment of AI

The evolving role and vision of the European AI Office

Alex’s personal hopes, concerns, and advice for future leaders in AI policy

This is episode #121 and Alex Moltzau!