AI isn’t just on the horizon. It’s here, transforming industries, economies, and the way regulators work. That’s why MDR Strategy Group brought together more than 130 regulatory leaders and experts for AI in Regulation: Global Perspectives and Local Leadership.
This event sparked important conversations about how AI is already influencing public protection and what’s next for the regulatory sector.
Throughout the day we explored these key questions and more: How can regulators leverage AI to improve efficiency and decision-making? What are the risks? How can they be mitigated? What does relevant regulation look like when technology is evolving faster than policy?
A call for proactive regulation
MDR’s CEO Daniel Roukema kicked off the event with a powerful reminder: AI is already woven into the fabric of our daily lives. “AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s embedded in the systems that shape our everyday lives; determine access to essential services, influence governance and operations, and even guide regulatory enforcement,” he said.
Our event MC, Arun Dixit, Vice President of Digital Transformation & Corporate Operations at Professional Engineers Ontario, reinforced that message. A leader in digital transformation and host of the conference, he urged regulators to approach AI with transparency and accountability. AI, he emphasized, should be a tool to enhance decision-making, not a replacement for human judgment.
Learning from global leaders
The morning keynote speaker Paul Byrne, Executive Director of Regulatory Operations at the Irish Medical Council, explored AI’s role across industries, emphasizing the balance between efficiency and accountability. While AI can streamline processes, he reminded attendees that the responsibility for its use ultimately rests with human decision-makers.
In the afternoon keynote, Kai Zenner, Head of Office and Digital Policy Adviser to Member of European Parliament Axel Voss, shared insights on the European Union’s approach to AI governance. As regulators worldwide consider how to oversee AI without stifling innovation, his message was clear: policies must be adaptable, and regulation must be forward-thinking.
Balancing innovation and oversight
A key theme throughout the conference was how regulators can harness AI to improve risk assessment, streamline compliance, and enhance efficiency while staying vigilant against unintended biases and regulatory blind spots. Speakers emphasized that AI should be treated as a tool to support decision-making, not a replacement for human oversight. Discussions underscored the importance of clear guidelines and adaptable policies to ensure AI serves the public good. Ethical considerations must be integrated into AI governance from the start, not treated as an afterthought.
A collective responsibility
One message stood out throughout the day: regulators cannot remain on the sidelines.
Regulatory bodies must take the lead in ensuring responsible AI use. The conversations at the event made it clear that with the right policies, ethical frameworks, and collaboration, AI can strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance public protection.
This event was made possible by the expertise and contributions of an outstanding lineup of speakers. Alongside our keynote presenters, speakers and moderators included Jennifer Quaglietta (Professional Engineers Ontario), Micah Matthews (Washington Medical Commission), Levin Karg (Ontario Securities Commission), Dr. Mark Woodland (Pennsylvania State Medical Board), Jessica Harper (Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario), Raymond Chan (Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority), Collette Deschenes and Melissa Peneycad (MDR Strategy Group), Shauna Grey (College of Physiotherapists of Ontario), Lonny Rosen (Rosen & Sunshine LLP), Ron Ahluwalia (College of Massage Therapists of Ontario), Dean Benard (Benard + Associates), Melika Khandanian (CORU), Andre Tinio (Alberta College of Social Workers), Javier Ruiz-Soler (Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario), and Damian Ali (MDR Strategy Group).
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event possible including attendees from across the country and beyond, speakers, volunteers, and the MDR team in Nova Scotia and Ontario. Your engagement and commitment to advancing the conversation on AI in regulation made this event impactful.
A special thank you from the MDR team to our CEO, Daniel Roukema. His vision, leadership and innovation continue to shape the regulatory sector.
This event was just the beginning.
AI’s role in regulation is evolving, and ongoing collaboration is essential. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Did you miss the conference? Get a full snapshot of the event, including key takeaways from each session by reviewing our AI in Regulation conference highlights.
Stay connected with our team on LinkedIn or reach out to us via email at info@mdrstrategy.ca.
