UK Experts Discuss Building Trust in Digital Technologies

London, United Kingdom – How can artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cyber security contribute to a more trustworthy and human-centered digital economy? This question was addressed at a thought-provoking program convened by the International Association for Peace and Economic Development (IAED-UK), an initiative of UPF-UK, on October 22, 2025 in London.

The program, “Building Trust in a Digital Age: Blockchain, AI, and Cyber Security,” was moderated by Mr. Kostas Kapelas, chair of IAED-UK. Presenters explored how emerging technologies can foster trust, transparency, and ethical leadership in the digital era.

The event brought together business innovators, technology specialists, and peacebuilders. Speakers and participants discussed the role of technology not only as a driver of efficiency, but also as a means of advancing interdependence, mutual prosperity, and universal values, the core principles of UPF’s peacebuilding vision.

Mr. Enrique Miguel Sánchez Motos, chair of IAED for Europe and the Middle East, joined via Zoom from Spain to introduce IAED’s global mission. He described the organization's view of the economy as a constructive instrument for peace, promoting harmony and sustainability through macroeconomic and microeconomic frameworks. He emphasized the importance of establishing rules for public budgets, monetary stability, private and public property, labor relations, and economic efficiency.

Mr. Santosh Paudel, secretary general of UPF-Asia Pacific, extended his welcome, stressing that trust is the foundation of peace, both in digital systems and in society at large. He highlighted the organization's work in promoting peace and progress through the integration of science, technology, and spiritual values, expressing appreciation for the UK chapter's efforts in advancing these goals.

The first speaker was Mr. Julian Fox, CEO and founder of Techrelate, which helps businesses safeguard their digital systems and data against cyber threats. He explained his work with digital identity, encryption, and the human side of cybersecurity, which means combining technical insight with a practical approach to managing risk. He also pursues continuous personal growth and enjoys life as a sailor, always searching for fair winds, balance, and new perspectives.

The next presenter was Mr. Phillip Franklin, managing director of Obsys Ltd., who has been designing and building bespoke software applications for over 40 years. He explained that, in creating a specific application, he begins by designing and modelling the system database, then adds layers on top of that, using the appropriate tools for the tasks. He stressed the importance of asking the right questions, to resolve issues before any code is written. He said it’s important to understand the latest AI and machine learning tools, but warned of traps and issues to be avoided so as not to waste time and money.

The final speaker was Mr. Sam Sharma, a visionary AI and digital transformation consultant with over 20 years of global experience helping leaders simplify complexity and unlock new growth through technology. Sam believes that AI can amplify human potential; he shared practical insights on how leaders should leverage AI as the core of their operations, not just as an add-on tool, in order to create time, clarity, and momentum.

Through real-world examples and thought-provoking insights, this IAED program explored how technology can be harnessed to serve people, communities and peace.

To watch the full program, click here. 

By Robin Marsh, Secretary General, UPF-United Kingdom October 22, 2025