How AI Governance Differs Between Regime Type

Author

• Jackson T. Guillou, University of MississippiFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-8-2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Intelligence and Security Studies

First Advisor

Wesley Yates

Second Advisor

Leslie Guelcher

Third Advisor

Wes Jennings

Relational Format

Thesis

Abstract

This thesis will examine how artificial intelligence (AI) regulation and development differ across political regime types, arguing that governance outcomes are fundamentally shaped by institutional political structures. This thesis will draw on comparative frameworks analyzing democratic and authoritarian systems. This thesis will also include case studies of the European Union, the United States of America, China, and Russia. The study finds that democratic regimes tend to emphasize transparency, accountability, and rights-based regulation of AI. This often results in slow regulation of AI, but it is more ethically legitimate and constrained. In contrast, authoritarian regimes prioritize centralized control, strategic coordination, and data access, enabling rapid development and deployment of AI. This authoritarian system does raise concerns of AI abuse, limited oversight, and long-term innovation constraints. The thesis concludes that while authoritarian systems may possess short-term advantages in speed and scale, democratic systems offer more sustainable frameworks that are grounded in legitimacy and trust.

Recommended Citation

Guillou, Jackson T., "How AI Governance Differs Between Regime Type" (2026). Honors Theses. 3525.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3525

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