September 23, 2025 — From Peace Dividend to Defence Dividend
Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI)
CIGI offers expert research and policy analysis at the intersection of technology and international governance.
From Peace Dividend to Defence Dividend: Dual-Use, Quantum and NATO Targets
Canada and other members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization are facing higher defence-spending targets in response to growing geopolitical tensions. In this paper, Michael Murphy , Tracey Forrest and Paul Samson look at how Canada can meet this target through a whole-of-government approach.
Digital Inclusion: Policy Pathways for Public-Private Partnerships
The digital divide persists, especially along gender, geographic and generational lines. In this policy brief, Deepak Maheswari argues that creating well-designed and executed public-private partnerships — combining the convening power of the public sector with private sector entrepreneurship — could bridge such gaps.
CIGI Welcomes Einar Tangen
CIGI is pleased to announce that Einar Tangen has joined as a senior fellow. A former lawyer, entrepreneur and investment banker and based in Beijing, Einar is an international commentator on geopolitics and the global economy, with a focus on China’s evolving role in international governance.
A warm welcome to Einar!
Policy Prompt: Season 2 Launches September 23
Get ready for the next season of CIGI’s podcast exploring technology, society and public policy. Tune in for hosts Vasiliki (Vass) B. and Paul Samson ’s in-depth conversations with leading thinkers on transformative technologies and the policies shaping our world.
Be sure to add us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube to be notified when the next episode drops.
The Planetary Implications of AI: What We Don’t Know Could Hurt Us
The predictive and computing powers of artificial intelligence (AI) are already improving industrial processes and supercharging medical research. But AI’s electricity and water needs are soaring. In this opinion, Dr. Cornelia C. Walther writes that with Climate NYC under way and COP30 ahead, “what happens in these months will influence whether AI becomes a regenerative ally or an accelerant of planetary stress.”
The Orwellian Trap for Services in “Reciprocal” Trade Deals
“Trade powered by cross-border flows of data — bytes — is expanding far faster than the traditional trade in physical goods,” writes Hector Torres , and the “origin” of these services is impossible to track without intrusive surveillance. In this op-ed, first published by the Hinrich Foundation , Torres argues that Trump’s pursuit of preferential trade deals risks pushing US trading partners into adopting China-style digital firewalls.
Join Us This Week!
The Future of Digital Finance Conference, an official side event of the Think20 (T20) South Africa 2025, takes place on Wednesday and Thursday.
Join us September 24 and 25 and be part of the important discussions happening at the T20.
Find out more about the sessions and speakers at this virtual event and register here.
Thank you for reading.