This chapter explores the global dynamics of AI talent mobility, moving beyond the traditional \u201cbrain drain\u201d narrative to introduce the concepts of \u201cbrain circulation\u201d and \u201cbrain regain.\u201d Drawing on migration theory, empirical data, and national policy examples, we examine how countries can turn talent outflows into strategic advantages. We compare leading approaches\u2014including education programs, mobility policies, and public-private partnerships\u2014using updated data on global AI talent flows. Key trends include intensified competition between states and firms, increasing privatization of knowledge, and the growing dominance of the private sector in AI research, which now produces 89% of notable models. China accounts for 47% of top-tier AI researchers (up from 29% in 2019), India\u2019s AI talent concentration has risen by 252%, and Singapore leads globally in talent density. Evidence from countries like China, India, and Singapore shows that \u201cbrain regain\u201d strategies\u2014combining domestic opportunity creation with global engagement\u2014can reverse historical migration patterns. We conclude with policy recommendations to support equitable global talent development, including a proposal for a UN-brokered Global AI Talent Pact to promote collaborative competition and ensure shared benefits from AI innovation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
This chapter explores the global dynamics of AI talent mobility, moving beyond the traditional \u201cbrain drain\u201d narrative to introduce the concepts of \u201cbrain circulation\u201d and \u201cbrain regain.\u201d Drawing on migration theory, empirical data, and national policy examples, we examine how countries can turn talent outflows into strategic advantages. 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