At TechBBQ, Europe’s AI conversations kept coming back to: Who’s actually in control?

At TechBBQ in Copenhagen, attendees from across Europe were fixated on a single question: who should have control over AI technology? The annual Nordic conference threw this question around during both formal events and informal gatherings. The idea of European nations gaining more control over AI technology was especially relevant after Anthropic's AI models Mythos and Fable were taken offline for users outside Europe.

This incident sparked discussions about the implications of relying on AI models and infrastructure from the U.S. and China. While some execs acknowledged the risks, others remained unconcerned. Ellen de Brever, an angel investor, noted that the theme of agency at TechBBQ seemed particularly relevant as the conversation shifted from AI's capabilities to the extent to which Europeans were willing to cede control.

One panel focused on the future of women's health, while another highlighted collaboration between Nordic and African ecosystems. Platform for Privacy Preferences Project (PPP) President Meredith Whittaker's session on privacy and AI was particularly noteworthy, as she argued that the AI era is creating a "data collection apparatus."

Emad Mostaque, co-founder of Stability AI, also argued that AI labs are concentrating power and that "the person that controls the AI controls the country." Some attendees raised concerns about the future of work and democracy in light of AI's increasing influence. However, amidst the serious discussions, lighter conversations took place at happy hours and rooftop gatherings.

The after-party continued with attendees watching fire dancers and engaging in conversations about human connection and the role technology plays in society.