Macron Calls for Responsible AI Governance and Free Speech Safeguards at Global AI Summit 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed global leaders at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, emphasizing the need for a balanced global framework that protects free speech while ensuring artificial intelligence safety and accountability.

Speaking during a high-level session on AI governance, Macron highlighted that rapid AI development must be accompanied by transparency, ethical standards, and democratic oversight. He stressed that freedom of expression should remain protected but must be grounded in responsibility, respect, and safeguards against misuse, misinformation, and harmful content.

Macron called for stronger international cooperation to develop common regulatory principles that prevent fragmentation of global AI standards. He urged democratic nations to lead efforts in building trustworthy AI systems that are secure, inclusive, and aligned with human rights.

The French President also noted that AI safety frameworks should encourage innovation without creating excessive regulatory burdens that could stifle startups and research ecosystems. He emphasized collaboration between governments, technology companies, and civil society to ensure AI benefits society while minimizing risks.

Macron’s remarks reinforced France’s position as a key European voice in shaping global AI rules and underlined the importance of coordinated action among like-minded nations to manage the transformative impact of artificial intelligence.