Until recently, artificial intelligence was widely viewed as a driver of innovation and economic growth rather than a subject of political controversy. Today, however, concerns about AI’s environmental footprint, the expansion of data centres, algorithmic surveillance, and the spread of AI-generated misinformation have brought the technology to the centre of public and political debate. This SPUI25 event explores how AI evolved from a largely technical issue into a major political battleground. Researchers from the University of Amsterdam will discuss the growing societal and regulatory pushback against AI, the role of civil society in shaping technology policy, and the broader implications of AI for democracy, governance, and public life.