“For some time now, the world has been going through a period of searching and realignment, and BRICS decisions can accelerate the change of the global economic order.”

By Ret Gen Corneliu Pivariu

The BRICS meeting on 6-7 July 2025 took place in a tense international context, marked by stagnating economic growth in the West, the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and an industrial revival in Asia. The summit occurred as BRICS member states seek to strengthen their role in the global architecture, but it was also marked by the physical absence of two key leaders: Xi Jinping was absent for the first time since 2012[1], and Vladimir Putin participated only online[2].

Among the participants were Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva – President of Brazil (host and rotating BRICS president), Narendra Modi – Prime Minister of India, Cyril Ramaphosa – President of South Africa, Prabowo Subianto – President of Indonesia (admitted as a member on 6 January 2025), and Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan – President of the United Arab Emirates.

This meeting is shaping up to be a turning point, with the potential to accelerate the process of de-dollarisation and the consolidation of a multipolar economic order.

Main Outcomes

The final declaration was extensive and cautious, spanning 31 pages, addressing reforms of global institutions (UN, IMF, World Bank), cooperation in health, climate change, AI, and logistics infrastructure.

Positions reserved towards the USA and Israel were expressed, with diplomatic wording chosen regarding sanctions and regional conflicts, although the military attack on Iran was condemned, and generic support for multilateralism was expressed.

Promotion of the use of national currencies[3] in internal trade to the detriment of the dollar, with support for the development of the BRICS Pay[4] platform and for the establishment of proprietary financial infrastructures. Consolidation of the BRICS Bank (NDB).

Initiatives for AI regulation and data protection, highlighting the need to safeguard data against unauthorized use in AI training. Given the complexity and novelty of the subject, it will continue to be addressed to establish a mandatory legal framework in the field[5].

In the field of energy coordination and strategic resources, the meeting took place against the backdrop of a volatile oil market and new energy alliances. Discussions were held on reducing dependence on the US dollar in energy transactions and creating supply chains within BRICS[6]. Geopolitical tensions (sanctions against Russia and Iran) necessitate the acceleration of energy coordination.

The summit confirmed that technological and industrial partnerships are becoming a strategic pillar of the bloc, aiming in the medium term for technological autonomy within BRICS, the creation of an integrated internal market, and the transformation of the bloc into a major global industrial-technological actor[7].

Unlike 2024, which saw the largest BRICS expansion, no final decision was made in Rio regarding the admission of new members. It was decided to continue discussions on the admission of Saudi Arabia[8] until the BRICS 2026 summit. Additionally, it was decided to create a BRICS working group on expansion to establish: economic and political admission criteria; procedures for evaluating candidacies; and a realistic calendar for the next wave of expansion[9]. In conclusion, BRICS expansion has not stopped but has entered a period of internal consolidation following the major 2024 expansion.

Conclusions and Practical Implications

The 2025 BRICS meeting will consolidate the trend of diversifying global economic and financial relations, offering member states and partners an alternative to dollar hegemony.

Through energy and resource agreements, BRICS will reduce its members’ exposure to sanctions imposed by the USA and EU, especially in the context of current conflicts.

BRICS coordination may weaken the influence of the IMF and World Bank, while the NDB may become a pivot for financing infrastructure projects in the Global South.

China and India[10] will strengthen their influence as leaders of the Global South, influencing investment flows and setting technological standards.

The summit reflects the consolidation of BRICS as an alternative but cautious pole, without radical steps. The event marks a shift from ideological rhetoric to practical measures for building economic, financial, and technological autonomy.

The United States and the European Union have expressed concerns regarding the accelerated de-dollarization process, fearing the loss of global financial influence and the shift of trade flows towards BRICS platforms.

The expansion of BRICS and its de-dollarization initiatives may affect the EU’s access to essential resources and emerging markets, requiring adjustments in European energy and industrial strategies to counter the growing influence of the BRICS bloc in global markets.

For Romania, it is important to closely monitor the directions set at the BRICS summit, as the expansion and consolidation of this group may generate changes in energy, raw material, and global trade markets, indirectly affecting European economies as well.

At the same time, BRICS developments may offer opportunities for targeted collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and trade, and adapting national strategies to these realities may help reduce vulnerabilities and diversify international economic partnerships.

In conclusion, although BRICS cannot unilaterally change the global economic order, the cohesion of member states’ interests may gradually drive changes in global economic and financial power flows.

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[1] The official reason given for the Chinese leader’s absence was “a scheduling conflict.” Insufficiently confirmed sources mention possible health issues, as well as the potential existence of tensions at the top of the Chinese political-military leadership. He was represented by Prime Minister Li Qiang.

[2] Vladimir Putin, under an arrest warrant issued by the ICC, intervened online and was physically represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

[3] In the short term (2025-2026), BRICS transactions in national currencies are expected to increase by 15-20% compared to 2024 levels. Additionally, the testing of the BRICS digital currency in pilot transactions between China, Russia, and India is foreseen.

[4] A pilot program has been launched between China, India, and Russia for transactions in yuan, rupees, and rubles, targeting trade in raw materials and industrial equipment, with a tested volume exceeding USD 2 billion over the past six months.

[5] BRICS does not yet have a unified AI Act due to ongoing differences between Russia, China, and India. In Rio, the intention was confirmed to: strictly protect the data of BRICS citizens; condition access to data on compensation/collaboration agreements; and develop a proprietary AI infrastructure independent of foreign actors. BRICS considers data to be strategic resources, similar to mineral or energy resources.

[6] Russia and Iran proposed the creation of BRICS energy corridors (oil, LNG, strategic minerals). Discussions took place regarding the strengthening of the North-South International Transport Corridor (Iran-Russia-India). The possibility of LNG deliveries from Russia and Iran to Brazil and South Africa was also explored.

[7] Proposals for BRICS industrial zones with preferential customs regimes were discussed, as well as investments through the BRICS Bank in logistics infrastructure (ports, railways, integrated industrial zones). It was decided to establish the BRICS Council for Technology and Industry, which will prepare a joint strategic plan for the 2025-2030 period.

[8] Although invited, Saudi Arabia has not yet ratified its membership, citing the need for further internal consultations, balancing relations with the USA and China, and assessing the implications for OPEC.

[9] Divergent positions exist among members regarding expansion: China and Russia support expansion; India is calling for a pause for reflection, citing the risks of diluting internal cohesion; Brazil and South Africa prefer clear accession criteria, including commitments for financial contributions to the BRICS Bank.

[10] India has not yet managed to become a superpower, but it is a major regional power and an influential global actor, without having the complete instruments of a superpower (a globally projectable military, mass-competitive proprietary technology, soft power equivalent to the USA/China), and with some real limitations (young demographics, an education system and agriculture lagging behind a superpower economy). However, it has the potential to become a major actor, provided it overcomes its internal constraints and intelligently navigates the rivalry between China and the USA.

By John Dunkelgrün

For centuries, it was not uncommon for an army that had clearly lost a battle to be allowed to leave unharmed and honorably, often even with their colors, if they surrendered.

Life for the people of Gaza is hell, that much friend and foe can agree on, and that hell must stop. But putting pressure on Israel is not the best way to achieve that.

It is Hamas, which has brutally held the two million-plus Gazans hostage for a quarter of a century, which has used untold millions in aid to build its army, its weapon factories, and its underground fortress. It is Hamas that has stolen aid supplies and resold them at a gross profit to the Gazans.

Militarily, Hamas has been defeated. The only reason they can hold out is because of the hostages. The fastest way to save the people of Gaza from this hell on earth is to put maximum pressure on Hamas to release all hostages, the living and the dead, in return for a safe exit; if need be, with flying colors. Gaza should then get a pan-Arab caretaker government as a first step to a federal State of Palestine, together with the Palestine Authority in Ramallah. It would be a very hard pill to swallow for both the Israeli government and Hamas. However, this is where the power and influence of President Trump, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar can truly prove to be a force for good.

It would be better for both the people of Gaza and for Israel. It would finally give the Gazans the opportunity for a life in peace and hope for their future.

Any solution that leaves Hamas in power means waiting for the next round.

Supplementary information on the TIIF 2025

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Uzbekistan government has implemented  investment-friendly reforms, such as privatization initiatives, amendments to investment laws, and the expansion of public-private partnerships (PPP).

Under the “New Uzbekistan” vision, the country is actively pursuing green energy transitions, digital infrastructure expansion, and corporate governance reforms to build new growth engines.

At the heart of opportunity lies the resolute commitment of the authorities, embodied by the National Investment Fund. The government-established initiative serves as a dynamic catalyst for the development of the local capital market, the transformation of state-owned enterprises, and the elevation of corporate governance across its portfolio companies.

Stable Governance

The Republic of Uzbekistan is characterized by a stable and structured governance system, functioning as a semi-presidential constitutional republic. The President serves as the head of state, while executive power rests with the government, skillfully led by the Prime Minister. This robust political framework provides a solid foundation for progress and development in the nation.

Vibrant Youth Uzbekistan boasts a dynamic and youthful population, with an impressive 30.1% of its citizens under the age of 14. This energetic demographic is a vital driving force behind the country’s flourishing economy, embodying the promise of a bright future.

Natural resources

Uzbekistan is blessed with a wealth of natural resources, standing out for its rich deposits of gold and natural gas. Among its most valuable minerals are petroleum, natural gas, and gold, with an astounding 1,800 mineral reserves waiting to be explored and harnessed. These treasures not only fuel the nation’s economy but also highlight Uzbekistan’s potential as a key player on the global stage.

Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy

On September 11, 2023, the President of Uzbekistan introduced the inspiring “Uzbekistan – 2030” Strategy through Decree No. UP-158.

This visionary plan outlines an ambitious agenda of 100 goals across five key areas for the next seven years, drawing on valuable lessons and global insights while reflecting the spirit of “New Uzbekistan.”

Our aim is to elevate Uzbekistan to a high- to middle-income nation through sustainable economic growth and to establish education, healthcare, and social protections that meet the highest international standards. We are committed to empowering every citizen and building a fair and modern state that serves its people while safeguarding our sovereignty.

The Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy is not merely a plan; it is a lantern of hope that illuminates our collective dreams and paves the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for every one of us. Together, we are stepping boldly into tomorrow

Attracting Sustainable Investment: A Pathway to Success.

The OECD urgently calls for the swift implementation of the Road map for Sustainable Investment Policy Reforms (RSIPR). This initiative aims to assess Uzbekistan’s investment framework and provide tailored recommendations to enhance the investment climate. By adopting these reforms, Uzbekistan can unlock the long-term potential of foreign direct investment. Creating a fair environment for all stakeholders is essential for success. To attract investments, promotion and facilitation must work together. Establishing clear legal frameworks and fostering transparency and stability are crucial. We are at an exciting turning point in our development! It’s vital to build a strong local capital market without relying solely on foreign institutions. Let’s generate enthusiasm with international roadshows that highlight Uzbekistan’s dynamic investment opportunities. By showcasing our unique strengths, we can unlock a future filled with sustainable growth and prosperity.

The EBRD PPP Regulatory Guidelines Collection 2024 is an invaluable resource that should not be overlooked. This guide features a comprehensive Matrix Checklist that details all the essential prerequisites for establishing an online court. Additionally, it offers an innovative web tool designed specifically for policymakers, enabling them to craft a tailored list of measures necessary for successfully implementing an online court in their country. Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your legal infrastructure and streamline access to justice!

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that “the volume of trade with our neighbors has increased by more than 3.5 times in eight years, reaching almost $13 billion,”which is why he is proposing the promotion of the “Concept of an Integrated Region for Investment and Trade” in Central Asia.

The Bulgarian President, Rumen Georgiev Radev, highlighted existing investments in Uzbekistan’s oil processing, pharmaceutical, and food industries and noted the potential for deeper cooperation, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital innovation as part of Uzbekistan’s modernization agenda.

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico emphasized Uzbekistan’s strategic location, referring to it as a vital junction on emerging Eurasian trade routes and a bridge between the East and West. He underscored the significance of connectivity corridors for regional integration and prosperity, expressing Slovakia’s commitment to a sustainable Eurasian economy through ongoing dialogue with Uzbekistan.

Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov pointed out the country’s logistics capabilities, providing access to key markets in China, the Eurasian Economic Union, Europe, and the Middle East, noting the rapid development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

Overall, these speeches reflect a collective goal to position Central Asia, with Uzbekistan at the core, as a dynamic hub connecting Europe and Asia, emphasizing trade, stability, and opportunity. The forum showcases the potential of diplomacy and economic partnerships in shaping the region’s future.

Through comprehensive reforms, and a favourable business environment, Uzbekistan is seeing real progress. The “Uzbekistan-2030” Strategy is accelerating to support the economic development of the country. By 2030, Uzbekistan’s GDP is projected to reach $200 billion.

The IV Tashkent International  Investment Forum 2025-TIIF, confirms Uzbekistan’s status as one of the leading investment centre in Central Asia. Investment contracts and trade agreements totaling 30.5 billion USD were signed during TIIF-2025—marking a 14.6% increase compared to last year’s $26.6bn

Pictures are a courtesy of Uzbekistan Government Portal.

By Kamila Bogdanova

Can artificial intelligence predict and prevent diseases before clinical symptoms appear? Will smart factories balance automation with safe human–robot collaboration? How close are we to AI-managed air travel and single-pilot cockpits? These questions guided the fifth session of the global course “Understanding AI and Robotics: Their Multi-Dimensional and Multi-Spatial Implications for the Public and Private Sector”, held on 19 June 2025 under the title “Smart Production in the Connected World.”

Spanning the fields of medical technology, industrial manufacturing, product engineering, and aviation, the 5th lecture brought together three distinguished experts: Dipl.-Ing. David Ljuhar, founder of BRAINCON Technologies, Captain Rehan van Tonder, CEO of Shift Aviation Solutions and Boeing 777 pilot, and Dr. Sebastian Schlund, Head of the Institute of Production Engineering at TU Wien.

Framed by topics such as Industry 4.0, AI-powered logistics, healthcare prediction models, and safe aviation, the session offered participants both practical insights and critical reflections on what smart production truly demands in an increasingly connected world.

AI for Healthcare and Infection Control: Davul Ljuhar’s Perspective

Dipl. Ing. Davul Ljuhar delivered a lecture on the applications of AI in healthcare diagnostics and infection control. Drawing from decades of professional experience in high-tech industries and medical engineering, Ljuhar detailed two main areas of his expertise and work: AI in predictive diagnostics of bone-related diseases, and AI in the control and prevention of hospital-acquired infections.

Ljuhar began his presentation by reflecting on his initial encounter with AI, that took place in 1987, during his research on the use of expert systems in mechanical design. He later founded BRAINCON Technologies and redirected his focus to the assessment of bone diseases, specifically osteoporosis.

In collaboration with French researchers, Ljuhar’s team shifted from bone density to bone quality as the primary indicator of bone health. They used fractal dimension analysis to assess bone structure, establishing a methodology to evaluate the quality of bone tissue. This required large datasets and clearly defined ground truth standards.

Between 2012 and 2018, his team analysed a 10-year retrospective dataset from San Francisco. It comprised 7.4 terabytes of data from 7,000 patients. From this data, they isolated 2,000 baseline patients with no visible symptoms. Of these, 1,000 later developed osteoarthritis. Ljuhar’s analysis confirmed that predispositions to disease were visible in baseline data, proving that AI could detect early structural anomalies well before clinical symptoms appeared.

Building on this foundation, his team expanded AI applications to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Ljuhar noted parallels in current mammography technology, where AI systems can detect precancerous lesions up to three years in advance.

AI in Infection Prediction and Control

From 2016 onward, Ljuhar shifted focus to nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections. He emphasized the global urgency of this issue, citing an estimated 36 million annual deaths due to such infections, with a projected increase to 170 million by 2050. Ljuhar identified a need for systems that combine software and hardware to support hospitals in disinfection and outbreak prevention.

A significant challenge lay in the diversity of available data, which often lacked compatibility. Ljuhar illustrated this with an analogy: translating technical data from German to Chinese and back again resulted in inconsistent information. His team worked to harmonize and structure this data by identifying correlated data clusters. They defined four initial data groups to analyse environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and chemical concentration (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) in hospital settings.

Using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), his team developed algorithms capable of predicting effective germ inactivation strategies. Ljuhar highlighted the potential of reinforcement learning and cognitive systems in future infection control, anticipating AI-supported systems that could adapt and improve based on environmental data and past performance.

He referenced a current case in Kenya, where hospital infection rates contribute to 32% infant mortality among newborns. According to Ljuhar, such AI systems could significantly lower infection-related deaths and costs, which are expected to reach over $200 billion by 2050. In Austria alone, 140,000 cases of nosocomial infection are reported annually.

Ljuhar concluded by stating that his company’s pilot systems would be tested in hospitals starting later this year. He stressed that AI could provide meaningful support in global healthcare management and serve as predictive tools for both chronic diseases and public health crises.

AI in the Aviation Sector: Rehan Van Tonder’s Perspective

Captain Rehan Van Tonder, CEO of Shift Aviation Solutions Group, a former Boeing 777 captain and instructor, introduced the foundational structure required for operating an airline, emphasizing five essential components: physical hardware, human software, an operational base, financial support, and legal authorization. He underscored that the current aviation model faces persistent inefficiencies. These include long wait times for check-in, boarding, and immigration processes. According to Van Tonder, AI can directly address these inefficiencies through automation and predictive planning.

Van Tonder highlighted how third-party services are set to revolutionize passenger logistics. AI-powered drones could transport baggage directly from a passenger’s home to the aircraft. Biometric verification systems, already in use for passport control, are likely to eliminate the need for physical boarding passes. Wearable devices like smartwatches will soon enable biometric identification from check-in to boarding. These advancements will streamline the entire passenger journey.

AI in Flight Operations and Safety

Rehan Van Tonder stressed the vast volume of operational data transferred between aircraft and systems such as flight planning, maintenance, and checklist management. He emphasized that AI could translate this data into actionable insights, enhancing cognitive support for human operators. AI will reduce pilot errors by filtering and prioritizing information in high-pressure scenarios.

He presented a model for future flight decks, which may involve single-pilot operations. AI systems would take on procedural and emergency functions, leaving the pilot to supervise and intervene in exceptional cases. In the long term, pilotless cockpits might become feasible, although safety protocols and insurance frameworks remain barriers.

Economic Implications and Human Roles

Responding to a question about operational costs, Van Tonder explained that pilots contribute roughly 10% to an airline’s overall expenditure, with hardware, software, and fuel costs each constituting about a third. Automation could reduce the number of pilots needed on long-haul flights, generating cost savings without compromising safety. Cabin crew responsibilities will also evolve, with AI-enabled robots managing non-critical tasks like food and beverage service, while humans focus on safety and security.

Van Tonder anticipated future developments in AI-human interaction. Wearable cognitive augmentation devices could monitor pilot stress levels in real time. Ethical questions arise: who owns the data collected from a human’s brain activity? Will cognitive ability disparities lead to inequality in interfacing with advanced systems?

He warned of potential consequences if AI systems malfunction or behave unpredictably. AI oversight mechanisms must ensure fallback options, such as remote piloting, remain viable.

AI Solutions for Airport Efficiency

Van Tonder presented innovations developed by his company, including AI software that sequences aircraft arrivals to minimize holding patterns and reduce delays. This approach could eliminate the need for costly airport expansions. He cited the example of Montenegro, where his company’s software projected annual savings of over 70 million euros.

These solutions aim to optimize existing infrastructure, reduce CO2 emissions, and increase the efficiency of resource use across the aviation ecosystem.

Health Risks and Radiation Exposure

Van Tonder also addressed concerns about radiation exposure in aviation. He cited peer-reviewed research showing varied outcomes but confirmed that exposure does exist, especially for flight crews. Airlines monitor solar activity and adjust flight paths to mitigate risk. The implementation of AI may allow real-time radiation monitoring and further reduce health risks.

Van Tonder concluded by advocating for AI as a tool to increase safety, efficiency, and sustainability in aviation. He emphasized that while AI cannot yet replace human judgment in full, it can augment decision-making, reduce human error, and streamline operations. However, ethical, legal, and infrastructural challenges must be addressed.

The Rise of Humanoid Robotics in Industry: Dr. Sebastian Schlund’s Perspective

Dr. Schlund brings decades of expertise in industrial engineering and human-machine interaction. He has held academic and leadership roles at the University of Stuttgart, Fraunhofer IAO, and currently leads applied research at TU Wien. His current work focuses on the interface between robotics, production processes, and human-centered system design.

Sebastian Schlund began his lecture by outlining the historical trajectory of humanoid robotics. Early milestones included Electro, a remote-controlled robot built in 1939 by Westinghouse, and Japan’s WABOT-1 in 1973, capable of basic walking and gripping. These early efforts laid the groundwork for today’s more sophisticated humanoid systems, which now benefit from modern AI technologies.

Recent advancements by companies such as Tesla (Optimus), Boston Dynamics (Atlas), and Agility Robotics (Digit) have shown the potential of humanoid robots in performing simple, structured tasks. However, Dr. Schlund emphasized that these demonstrations remain mostly confined to controlled settings and are not yet robust enough for widespread deployment.

Simulation, AI, and Hardware Integration

Dr. Schlund highlighted the critical role of advanced AI and simulation platforms in recent progress. Tools developed by NVIDIA and OpenAI, for instance, allow developers to simulate robotic movement and learning in virtual environments before transferring these capabilities to physical robots. This simulation-to-reality pipeline has accelerated the development process and reduced costs.

Still, challenges persist. The physical limitations of hardware—especially robotic hands or end effectors—represent a major bottleneck. State-of-the-art five-fingered robotic hands can cost upwards of €20,000 to €30,000 per unit. Despite their mechanical sophistication, these tools still lack the flexibility and responsiveness of human hands, particularly when interacting with soft or deformable materials.

Human-Robot Collaboration and Future Trajectory

Dr. Schlund underscored the importance of designing collaborative robotics systems. He argued that humanoid robots should not aim to replace human labor but rather to support workers in environments where ergonomic stress or safety risks are high. In his view, true productivity gains will emerge not from automation alone but from balanced cooperation between humans and machines.

Looking forward, Dr. Schlund projected a realistic timeframe of about 10 years before humanoid robots could see large-scale deployment in industry. This will require not only technological refinement but also adaptation of workflows, regulatory frameworks, and workforce training.

From 2016 onward, Ljuhar shifted focus to nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections. He emphasized the global urgency of this issue, citing an estimated 36 million annual deaths due to such infections, with a projected increase to 170 million by 2050. Ljuhar identified a need for systems that combine software and hardware to support hospitals in disinfection and outbreak prevention.

A significant challenge lay in the diversity of available data, which often lacked compatibility. Ljuhar illustrated this with an analogy: translating technical data from German to Chinese and back again resulted in inconsistent information. His team worked to harmonize and structure this data by identifying correlated data clusters. They defined four initial data groups to analyse environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and chemical concentration (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) in hospital settings.

Using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), his team developed algorithms capable of predicting effective germ inactivation strategies. Ljuhar highlighted the potential of reinforcement learning and cognitive systems in future infection control, anticipating AI-supported systems that could adapt and improve based on environmental data and past performance.

He referenced a current case in Kenya, where hospital infection rates contribute to 32% infant mortality among newborns. According to Ljuhar, such AI systems could significantly lower infection-related deaths and costs, which are expected to reach over $200 billion by 2050. In Austria alone, 140,000 cases of nosocomial infection are reported annually.

Ljuhar concluded by stating that his company’s pilot systems would be tested in hospitals starting later this year. He stressed that AI could provide meaningful support in global healthcare management and serve as predictive tools for both chronic diseases and public health crises.

AI in the Aviation Sector: Rehan Van Tonder’s Perspective

Captain Rehan Van Tonder, CEO of Shift Aviation Solutions Group, a former Boeing 777 captain and instructor, introduced the foundational structure required for operating an airline, emphasizing five essential components: physical hardware, human software, an operational base, financial support, and legal authorization. He underscored that the current aviation model faces persistent inefficiencies. These include long wait times for check-in, boarding, and immigration processes. According to Van Tonder, AI can directly address these inefficiencies through automation and predictive planning.

Van Tonder highlighted how third-party services are set to revolutionize passenger logistics. AI-powered drones could transport baggage directly from a passenger’s home to the aircraft. Biometric verification systems, already in use for passport control, are likely to eliminate the need for physical boarding passes. Wearable devices like smartwatches will soon enable biometric identification from check-in to boarding. These advancements will streamline the entire passenger journey.

About the author:

Kamila Bogdanova is a Research Assistant at the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) in Vienna, and Information Officer at the International Institute for Middle East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES).