Stanford Leadership Forum 2026: Conversation with Rishi Sunak

Why It Matters

Understanding Sunak’s view of a volatile international order and the AI paradox helps executives and policymakers calibrate risk, investment, and strategic partnerships in a world where hard power and technology jointly shape future growth.

Key Takeaways

• International order is in unpredictable transition, hard power resurging.
• US-UK transatlantic alliance remains vital despite recent strains.
• Europe lags US growth; policy implementation gaps hinder competitiveness.
• AI is a general‑purpose technology offering both security risks and prosperity.
• Leaders must deploy “everyday AI” broadly, not just chase AGI race.

Summary

The Stanford Leadership Forum opened with former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joining Dean Sarah Soule via video to assess the shifting global landscape. Sunak argued that the post‑World‑War‑II rules‑based order has dissolved, ushering in a period of uncertainty where hard power is re‑emerging, especially as China becomes a peer competitor integrated into global trade. He emphasized that the United‑States‑United‑Kingdom transatlantic partnership remains a cornerstone of security and prosperity, noting personal rapport with President Biden but stressing that deep institutional ties—intelligence, military, and shared values—anchor the relationship beyond individual leaders. Turning to Europe, Sunak highlighted a stark productivity gap: the U.S. has outpaced Europe by roughly a third in GDP per‑capita, making the continent comparable to the poorest U.S. state. He cited limited implementation of Mario Draghi’s reform recommendations as evidence of political inertia. On technology, Sunak described a paradox: while geopolitical tensions rise, AI offers a transformative, general‑purpose engine akin to steam power, capable of delivering both prosperity and security if harnessed responsibly. The takeaway for business and policy leaders is clear: adapt to an unpredictable order by reinforcing defense capabilities, deepening transatlantic cooperation, accelerating structural reforms in Europe, and prioritizing the deployment of “everyday AI” to broaden societal benefits rather than merely racing for superintelligence.

Original Description

Rishi Sunak, MBA '06, Member of Parliament for Richmond and Northallerton in the U.K., former U.K. Prime Minister, and the William C. Edwards distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution, joins Sarah A. Soule, Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean; Morgridge Professor of Organizational Behavior, Stanford Graduate School of Business, for a conversation on leadership in a changing world, public service, decision making, and the challenges facing leaders across sectors.

Part of the 2026 Stanford Leadership Forum: Shaping the Future, hosted by the Stanford Leadership Institute at Stanford Graduate School of Business.

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