Tokyo Forum 2026 to address AI, humanity, and civilization

The Tokyo Forum 2026 is scheduled to take place on November 20 and 21 at the University of Tokyo's Yasuda Auditorium. Organized by the University of Tokyo in collaboration with the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies, the seventh edition of this international conference will focus on the theme: “AI as a Transformative Technology: Humanity, Knowledge, and Civilization.”

Keynote speakers include Anne Brouillet, AI Envoy for the French Presidency, Ren Ito, co-founder of Sakana AI, and Professor Kimihiko Abe from the University of Tokyo. Discussions will span various disciplines, including AI policy, governance, development, and the humanities.

Panel sessions will explore the societal impacts of AI, such as its potential to exacerbate inequality or enhance human capabilities, and its role in shaping the future of universities. The forum will also address digital archiving for preserving historical memories and host a youth session featuring collaborative research by Japanese and South Korean students.