The governance of artificial intelligence global value chains
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The governance of artificial intelligence global value chains
9–11 December 2026
The course is available in English
Introduction to the course
In today's data-driven economy, artificial intelligence is increasingly organised along complex value chains spanning data, models and applications. The systematic exploitation of data lies at the core of these AI value chains, which extend the platform economy and the Internet of Things. The legal frameworks governing how data is collected, accessed and used, and how these processes are regulated, form a dynamic and contested field at the heart of AI governance. This module explores the law of AI value chains, focusing on the intersection between data governance, competition, international trade and financial stability. It examines how legal and economic forces shape AI markets, with particular attention to cross-border data flows, access to key inputs and market power dynamics, including concentration and vertical integration. Students will engage with key regulatory domains, including data protection and ethics, human rights, cybersecurity, digital trade law, financial regulation, intellectual property and competition law, which jointly structure AI value chains across jurisdictions. The module also considers the financial stability and economic development implications of AI diffusion, including concentration risks, dependencies on critical infrastructures, and the potential impact of AI on credit allocation, asset valuations and market dynamics . The module highlights the complementarities and tensions across these regimes, and the resulting challenges for policymakers and market participants in global AI markets.
Who attends this course?
The course is designed for any of the following groups: z Recent legal professionals, public officers, and civil society practitioners with a legal or economic background; z Attorneys specializing in trade, data protection, and competition law in the digital sphere; z Lawyers representing and advising platforms, platform users, and companies operating cross-border in the digital economy; z Experts in international relations, public policy and institutional affairs; z Civil society advocates engaged in data governance and international relations in public institutions or think tanks.
Learning objectives
This course combines theoretical grounding with experiential learning, culminating in a simulation exercise and practical case studies that equip students with hands-on skills in navigating the global data economy.
The training course aims to:
- Provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the economic value and geopolitical significance of data and digital technologies in global trade;
- Analyse the regulatory fragmentation caused by differing national approaches to data governance and its impact on digital transformation and innovation;
- Assess how international trade law—through WTO disciplines and bilateral digital trade agreements— addresses cross-border data issues and future prospects for developing international regulatory cooperation through trade instruments;
- Explore avenues for global cooperation and the role of sector-specific regulation, especially in the financial and digital payments sectors.
How to Apply and Conditions of Participation
Applications must be submitted online via https://oarf2.itcilo.org/STF/A9019230/en by 27 February 2026.
The participation fee, excluding international travel costs, is EUR 1,915, payable in advance by the participant or their sponsoring organisation. This fee covers tuition, access to the eCampus platform, use of training facilities and support services, course materials, accommodation and full board at the Centre’s Campus, and emergency medical insurance.
Additional Information
- Language: The course will be conducted in English.
- Certificate: Participants will receive an ITCILO Certificate of Participation upon successful completion.
- Contact: For further information, please contact tradelaw@itcilo.org .
