Senior Expert & Lawyer

Paola Gálvez Callirgos

Paola is a tech policy consultant with over a decade of experience influencing human-centric digital governance from the private, public and multilateral sectors. She holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Oxford and her expertise spans AI ethics, digital inclusion and data governance. Paola is UNESCO’s Lead AI National Expert and member of the UNESCO AI Ethics Experts Without Borders. Her academic journey includes roles as AI Policy Fellow at the Center for AI and Digital Policy and Internet Governance trainer with Internet Society. Paola’s passion for ethical AI practices favoring minorities has earned her recognition as a sought-after keynote speaker at global conferences.

Paola is a recognised expert in AI and digital technology policy, with over a decade of experience delivering strategic advisory, stakeholder engagement, and managing high-impact initiatives across the private sector, public institutions, and multilateral organisations. Her work has directly shaped national and international digital agendas, with proven influence on regulation, strategy design, and capacity building.

Paola holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Oxford, where she studied as a fully funded Chevening Scholar, and graduated summa cum laude in Law from the Universidad de Lima. Her core areas of expertise include AI ethics, digital skills, gender inclusion, cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital rights.

In her role as Legal Affairs Counsel at Microsoft, Paola successfully influenced the final text of national Data Protection Regulations through legal analysis and evidence-based advocacy to find an adequate balance between keeping citizens safe online and allowing an entrepreneurial ecosystem. While serving as external counsel for Amazon Web Services, her policy proposal on Peru’s Digital Transformation Strategy was integrated into DU 006-2020-PCM, the decree that established the National Digital Transformation System.

As Strategic Advisor to the Secretary of Digital Transformation in Peru, she led the design and adoption of the Digital Talent National Strategy, co-developed the AI National Strategy, and spearheaded key programs including Digital Girls and Skills for the Future, which have collectively empowered thousands with essential digital capabilities. She also oversaw the launch of the Digital Talent National Platform, directly benefiting over 50,000 individuals.

Currently, Paola works as an International Consultant with leading global organisations. She was appointed UNESCO Lead AI National Expert to conduct Peru’s AI Readiness Assessment and contributes to the OECD’s work on AI and the administration of justice. Her academic roles include serving as an AI Policy Fellow at the Center for AI and Digital Policy, and Internet Governance trainer with the Internet Society.

Known for her ability to build consensus and translate complex topics into clear explanations, Paola is a frequent guest lecturer and has given more than 50 keynotes across the world.