The Guardian · 18 Sep, 07:14 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

Could AI really end humanity? Post your questions for our tech reporters now

The Guardian has initiated a public inquiry into existential risks associated with artificial intelligence, inviting readers to submit questions for their technology reporters.

What it means for you ↓ Courses for this story

25–40%salary premium for professionals with applied AI skills

11xgrowth in AI job adverts since 2019

66%of leaders won't hire without AI literacy

20days to your first credential

The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

The Guardian has initiated a public inquiry into existential risks associated with artificial intelligence, inviting readers to submit questions for their technology reporters. This initiative highlights growing mainstream concern regarding the potential long-term consequences of advanced AI systems. Rather than presenting definitive scientific conclusions, the publication seeks to aggregate public curiosity and anxiety. The move signals a shift from technical discussions to broader societal implications, reflecting heightened awareness among professionals and the general public about the urgent need for clarity on AI safety and regulatory frameworks.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

This narrative signals that AI risk is no longer a niche concern but a mainstream business issue. You must anticipate stricter regulatory environments and heightened stakeholder scrutiny. Professionals in governance, compliance, and strategy will see rising demand for skills in ethical AI oversight and risk mitigation. Do not ignore this trend; instead, proactively integrate AI safety principles into your operational frameworks. Prioritise upskilling in governance and strategic risk management to position yourself as a trusted advisor. Understanding the intersection of technology and policy will distinguish you from peers who view AI solely through a productivity lens. Act now to build resilience in your career by addressing these emerging concerns head-on.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are AI Strategy, Compliance And Governance, Risk Management Strategies and Artificial Intelligence — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

Enrol in these
to benefit.

These programmes position you for exactly this shift — online, self-paced, and finishing with a verifiable certificate you can share the day you pass.