At the World Governments Summit in Dubai on February 12, 2025, leaders from around the globe gathered to explore the future of governance in an increasingly digital world. One of the most discussed proposals came from Larry Ellison, Oracle’s Executive Chairman, who addressed the summit via video link. His vision? A unified national database in the U.S. that artificial intelligence (AI) could leverage to enhance government efficiency and decision-making.

Ellison argued that the current structure of government data in the U.S. is too fragmented, creating inefficiencies across various sectors. He proposed consolidating this information into a single database, allowing AI to process and optimize national operations. According to Ellison, such a system could lead to better healthcare management, improved handling of security threats, and more efficient crisis response.

“If we unify the national data and let AI process it, we can create a far more intelligent and effective system for healthcare, security, and even crisis management,” Ellison stated during his address.

His proposal aligns with broader global trends where AI is playing a larger role in governance. Many businesses have already adopted AI-driven analytics to enhance efficiency, and Ellison believes governments should follow suit.

Former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair, a strong advocate for digital transformation in governance, also spoke at the event. Blair emphasized that adopting AI and data-driven systems is not just an advantage but a necessity for modern governments. He highlighted that many nations are making significant strides toward this digital evolution.

“Governments globally need to embrace digital transformation—not just as an option, but as a necessity,” Blair remarked. His comments reinforced the idea that AI-driven governance is rapidly becoming a reality rather than a distant possibility.

The potential benefits of Ellison’s vision are substantial. A unified database could help government agencies identify trends, improve decision-making, and respond more swiftly to crises. National security could also be strengthened as AI-driven insights detect threats earlier, potentially preventing cyberattacks and other national risks. In healthcare, AI could optimize medical research, ensure better resource allocation, and enhance emergency response strategies.

However, the proposal also raises significant concerns. Privacy advocates warn of potential government overreach and the ethical risks of concentrating vast amounts of sensitive information in a single system. Critics question whether this initiative would lead to greater efficiency or merely expand surveillance capabilities. Additionally, there are concerns about cybersecurity—if such a system were breached, the consequences could be severe.

Before any real steps are taken toward implementation, these critical questions must be addressed: How can such a system be secured against cyberattacks? What safeguards would be put in place to prevent data from being misused? Ensuring transparency and accountability in handling sensitive data will be essential if such a project is to gain both public and political support.

Ellison’s proposal contributes to an ongoing debate about AI’s role in governance. While some view AI as a transformative tool for efficiency and innovation, others warn of the risks associated with centralizing data. Regardless of differing opinions, one thing is clear: AI is already shaping the way governments operate and make decisions.

As these discussions continue, public discourse on privacy, data protection, and AI ethics will play an increasingly vital role. Whether Ellison’s vision materializes remains to be seen, but what is certain is that the future of governance is becoming increasingly digital.