Writer & Researcher

Aisha Diop

AI Policy & Governance

Making the future of AI legible for policymakers, practitioners, and the public. I write at the intersection of emerging technology, civil rights, and creativity.

View Published Work

Background & approach

I'm a writer and researcher focused on AI governance, technology policy, and equity. My work explores how AI and other emerging technologies impact those on the periphery of power.

Along with becoming an independent writer and researcher, I work in across academia and civil society organizations, commenting on regulatory frameworks and contributing to public consultations at both national and international levels.

I write for general audiences and policymakers. I believe those without formal training on AI still deserve to learn how it will shape their lives. Whether drafting briefing papers for legislators or long-form essays for curious readers, rigorous ideas don't require inaccessible language.

Areas of expertise

Policy Analysis

Translating complex regulatory questions into clear, actionable findings for diverse audiences.

AI Ethics & Bias

Examining how algorithmic systems embed values and produce disparate outcomes across communities.

Regulatory Frameworks

Comparative analysis of AI legislation across the EU, US, and emerging economies.

Creative & Essay Writing

Drawing on personal experience to put AI in a human context; narrative writing that connects policy to lived reality.

International Governance

Tracking multilateral institutions, global standards bodies, and cross-border coordination efforts.

Stakeholder Research

Qualitative interviewing, civil society mapping, and participatory research methods.

Selected writing

Substack

Gen Z wants agency—not AI agents

Why Silicon Valley and Gen Z are talking past each other. On Gen Z's growing disillusionment with AI, the need to advocate for industry and policy change, and how to use AI in ways that don't erode our agency.

Anthology

I Am the Dream: Voices of a New Generation

Author of the opening chapter in this anthology by the inaugural cohort of Write Your Story—a collaboration between Cinnamongirl, Inc. and the Bay Area Book Festival bringing creative writing mentorship to young women of color, ages 12–18, guided by acclaimed authors including Rena Barron, Deborah Santana, and Arisa White.

On Substack

Substack · @aishadiop

AI Policy, in Plain Language

A space for op-eds, close readings of AI policy news, and personal narratives from the intersection of technology and governance. I write for people who want to think carefully about AI, without a technical background required. Expect analysis, opinion, and essays that urge readers to take action.

Read on Substack →

1 book, 2 articles · more on the way

Open to commissions, collaborations, and speaking invitations.

aishardiop@gmail.com