Building Trust in AI: Innovation, Data Sovereignty, and Competitiveness

Artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping economic transformation, competitiveness, public services, and the future of work. At the same time, it raises important questions about trust, skills, inclusion, data protection, and the role of governments in guiding technological change. In this episode, Scott Bradley, Vice-President of Government Relations at OpenText, discusses how countries in the Americas and the Caribbean can participate meaningfully in emerging innovation while addressing the broader impacts of AI on societies and labour markets. His intervention explores public concern around artificial intelligence, the need to build digital capacity, and the role of governments in demonstrating trusted and practical uses of AI. He also highlights the importance of starting with small, useful applications that solve real problems before scaling more complex projects. The episode also examines data sovereignty and the need for countries to protect their most critical information while continuing to benefit from global innovation. Bradley reflects on hybrid models that allow countries to remain open and competitive while building secure domestic systems and protecting sensitive data. The conversation concludes with a reflection on national AI strategies as a legislative and policy priority. Bradley emphasizes the importance of protecting data, building trust in AI systems, supporting responsible government adoption, and ensuring that AI remains human-centred, with people actively involved in how these systems are designed and used. This episode was recorded during the 22nd ParlAmericas Plenary Assembly and 10th Gathering of the Open Parliament Network, titled “Parliamentary Leadership for Shared Prosperity: Advancing Trade, Innovation, and Security in a Changing World,” held in Ottawa, Canada, from May 19 to 22, 2026. Please find the meeting content available at the following link.