George Osborne Joins OpenAI to Lead Global AI for Countries Initiative

Former UK chancellor George Osborne is taking a high-profile move into the tech sector with OpenAI. Based in London, he will lead the OpenAI for Countries program, assisting governments to grow AI capabilities and governance frameworks.

What OpenAI for Countries aims to do

The initiative works with governments to ensure AI systems reflect democratic values and are used for public benefit. It has already engaged with more than 50 countries, focusing on AI literacy, digital infrastructure, and better public services.

Osborne’s role and background

Osborne leaves his role at investment bank Evercore and has previously served as editor of the Evening Standard newspaper. He says conversations with OpenAI leaders convinced him of the importance of responsible AI development that benefits everyone.

How the program fits into broader policy

OpenAI’s global affairs chief Chris Lehane described Osborne’s move as part of a belief that AI is becoming essential infrastructure; early governance choices will influence economics and geopolitics for years. Lehane noted that OpenAI for Countries aims to align AI with democratic values and expand partnerships worldwide, a goal that has already reached more than fifty countries.

What Osborne will do in this role

He will work with governments to build AI-friendly infrastructure, boost AI literacy, and leverage AI to enhance public services. He is expected to strengthen existing partnerships and forge new collaborations as AI technology grows.

The backdrop

The appointment comes as Downing Street says talks with the United States on a major tech deal remain active. The package, announced in September, included billions of pounds in planned spending from tech giants such as Nvidia and Google. Some reports suggest broader disagreements have slowed progress, though AI investment remains a priority globally. The Bank of England recently warned of the risk of a rapid fall in the value of tech stocks as AI funding approaches trillions of dollars over the next five years.

Expert comment: Industry analysts view Osborne’s move as a sign that governments are pursuing AI governance seriously. Yet rapid AI growth also calls for careful regulation to manage risk and inequality.

Summary: Osborne joins OpenAI to drive public-sector AI initiatives from London. The program emphasizes democracy, literacy, and infrastructure in dozens of countries. The move comes amid strong AI investment and ongoing UK-US policy talks.

Osborne’s appointment highlights a push to treat AI as essential public infrastructure, with governance and international collaboration at its core. BBC News

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