International Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence Regulation: Necessity or Choice?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the key technologies of the 21st century, offering both new opportunities and systemic risks. Today, states and international organizations are developing various strategies to regulate AI, but a unified global approach is still lacking. This article examines the question: is international cooperation in AI regulation a necessity or a political choice? The aim of the study is to analyze existing regulatory models, assess their effectiveness, and identify conditions under which global cooperation becomes essential. The methodology includes comparative legal and analytical methods, as well as case analysis of international documents and initiatives. The research focuses on key frameworks such as the EU AI Act, UNESCO recommendations, OECD guidelines, and G7 statements. The article outlines the main barriers to unification: national sovereignty, differences in ethical and political approaches, and competition for AI leadership. The conclusion is that global AI regulation is not merely a matter of choice, but a necessary response to the transboundary nature of AI technologies. Lack of coordinated action may lead to a legal vacuum and increased global risks. The article will be of interest to scholars in international law, digital policy, and the ethics of technology.