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Lauri Lavanti

Because someone has to understand AI

Lauri Lavanti resting his hands against each other and looking at the camera with a smile. He is wearing a white dress shirt and a dark blazer. Photo by Erkki Laine. Lauri Lavanti resting his hands against each other and looking at the camera with a smile. He is wearing a white dress shirt and a dark blazer. Photo by Erkki Laine.

Why do we need decision-makers who understand AI?

For decades, Finland has been a model country for high technology and expertise – from Vaisala to icebreakers, Nokia, Linux, and Supercell. Now, however, this position is under threat. At the same time, AI is fundamentally transforming society: it is changing work, trust in digital services, and human connections. Additionally, the state’s financial situation sets limits on what we can do.

Now more than ever, we need expertise and understanding of technology, AI, and how they affect society and markets. I have a technology education from Aalto University and practical experience from over a decade as a developer of secure software and banking services. I understand the different ways technology can be put to use and how it affects society. I also understand where its limits must be set, so that we preserve the rule of law.

Some of these limits are particularly valuable: they protect everyone’s privacy and fundamental rights. Privacy protection is not a brake on development, but a prerequisite for democracy.

I am Lauri Lavanti, a municipal councilor from Kirkkonummi, Chair of the Green Council Group, father of four, lead developer, and Master of Science in Technology. On these pages, you will find my thoughts on the future and what lies ahead for us.