New research agendas in international relations: energy transition and artificial intelligence

Abstract

This article examines the energy transition and artificial intelligence as new areas of research in international relations, considering the impact of these emerging events on global power dynamics. The study begins with the question of how these phenomena reshape cooperation and competition between states, as well as their implications for economics and geopolitics. To this end, a systematic literature review is conducted, analyzing recent research on the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the influence of artificial intelligence as a general-purpose technology. The results indicate that the energy transition generates new alliances and tensions, particularly in economies heavily reliant on hydrocarbons. At the same time, artificial intelligence amplifies power asymmetries, posing challenges in terms of sovereignty, regulation, and equity. Both processes emerge as key themes in the discipline, broadening research agendas in international relations.