TechCrunch Global Affairs Project

The Enduring Intersection of Technology and Power

Throughout history, technology has consistently defied limitations. Even detailed satellite imagery reveals no discernible borders on Earth. Innovations, ranging from the printing press to social media platforms, have facilitated the transcendence of both time and geographical constraints.

While we’ve become accustomed to technology’s disruptive potential, this hasn’t always been the case. Historically, technology has frequently served to redefine, rather than overcome, boundaries. The trajectories of empires – from ancient Rome and China to the British Empire and the United States – demonstrate how those who effectively utilize technology often achieve dominance.

A Recent Shift in Dynamics

This pattern persisted for approximately three decades.

Following the fall of the Berlin Wall, technological advancement largely operated independently of political influence. Consumer preferences, rather than governmental policies, became the primary driver of societal progress.

This period of relative autonomy yielded significant advantages, including the development of smartphones, electric vehicles, and the World Wide Web. Considering the past eighteen months, it’s difficult to imagine functioning without tools like Zoom, TikTok, or Amazon Prime.

However, this dynamic is currently undergoing a transformation. For the first time in recent memory, political considerations are arguably the most crucial factor shaping the future of technology.

Introducing the TechCrunch Global Affairs Project

Consequently, we are launching the TechCrunch Global Affairs Project today.

After enjoying a prolonged period of minimal oversight, the world’s leading technology companies are now confronting a rapidly evolving political landscape. Regulatory bodies in Europe are scrutinizing tech multinationals regarding taxation, data privacy, and monopolistic practices.

Chinese authorities are curtailing the influence of their most powerful domestic companies while simultaneously restricting the operations of foreign competitors. Within the politically polarized United States, renewed antitrust enforcement is gaining bipartisan support and momentum.

Tech Companies as Nation-States

This increased scrutiny arises as technology companies increasingly resemble nation-states in their scope and influence. Facebook now possesses a judicial system; private citizens have ventured into orbit, achieving feats previously reserved for governments; and cryptocurrencies challenge the monetary authority of nations.

Simultaneously, governments are strategically employing technology to advance their own agendas. Rather than supporting dissidents, technology is now being utilized for repression. The recent controversy surrounding the Israeli firm NSO Group exemplifies how authoritarian regimes are deploying sophisticated tools, such as ransomware, to monitor and control political opposition.

Technology has evolved from a tactical instrument to a strategic objective. The level of geopolitical significance hasn’t been seen since the U.S.-Soviet arms and space races. Huawei serves as a prominent example of technological competition functioning as a proxy for geopolitical rivalry.

From Taiwan to Sweden, and from Brussels to Beijing, technology policy and foreign policy are becoming increasingly intertwined. The ability to control advanced technology will determine the global order of the 21st century, according to experts.

A New Era of Alignment

After decades of unrestricted development, the time has come for stakeholders to make strategic choices.

Introducing the Project Lead

Allow me to introduce myself. I am a native of California, with a background as a writer and policy analyst. I have lived and worked in New York, Washington, London, and Paris.

My experience includes speechwriting, work at a major philanthropic foundation, consulting for political campaigns, and co-authoring a bestselling book. My primary focus is foreign policy and national security, but I have also worked on issues such as philanthropy, trade, 5G, and U.S.-China relations.

While I will contribute to this series periodically, my main role will be as curator and editor. We have invited leading experts and practitioners to share their insights on the impact of technology on their respective fields.

Exploring the Interconnected Landscape

Our contributors will explore topics ranging from cybersecurity and drones to artificial intelligence and the future of democracy. They will analyze current developments and explain how technology is shaping the future. They will bridge the gap between technological advancements and their broader implications for society.

Several critical issues demand attention. Competition with China is paramount, but so is collaboration with allies. With COP26 approaching, climate change – and the tech sector’s potential contribution – is crucial. Understanding technology’s influence on civic discourse is essential for preserving democracy and protecting human rights.

Initial Focus Areas

This week, we begin with articles on topics often overlooked in discussions about technology. Matt Rogers, co-founder of Nest, examines the role of startups in addressing climate change. Phil Levy, chief economist at Flexport, analyzes the implications of decoupling from China for tech supply chains. Robert Karanja of Omidyar Network explores the risks and benefits of digital ID systems.

This series is an ongoing experiment, and we intend to refine it based on feedback. We encourage you to share your thoughts and suggestions. Our aim is to provide clarity, information, and stimulate thoughtful discussion. We invite you to join us on this journey.