Rebuilding Trust in AI via Effective Governance

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to growing concerns about its ethical implications, particularly in terms of trust on a global scale. Ulla Coester, project director at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, emphasizes the importance of establishing adaptable governance frameworks to foster a shared understanding that promotes responsible AI development across societies.

Coester asserts that the current landscape presents challenges, as unclear threats and unpredictable behaviors hinder confidence in AI technologies. “Governance must therefore be adaptable to behavior. The question that arises is, ‘What is at risk of being undermined—trust in AI or societal self-understanding?'” she states. The integration of regulations such as the EU AI Act serves as a pivotal measure in cultivating clarity regarding the intended direction of AI advancements.

To effectively align AI with global values, Coester advocates for cross-disciplinary collaboration. She notes that the ethical evaluation of AI solutions should begin by assessing their criticality. Establishing roadmaps that take cultural nuances and regulatory differences into account from the outset is essential for responsible implementation.

In a recent interview with Information Security Media Group at the RSAC Conference 2025, Coester outlined several key considerations, including the necessity for societal expectations to shape trust in AI beyond mere technological capabilities. She also highlighted the EU AI Act’s crucial role in developing common governance principles, along with the significance of interdisciplinary teams for ensuring ethical and legal compliance.

Coester has worked to cultivate corporate cultures that align with a company’s ethical standards while also meeting societal expectations in the context of digital transformation. Her focus has been on providing targeted strategies for the implementation of digitalization projects, particularly those involving AI technologies, ensuring that ethical considerations enhance user acceptance.