2026 Fall Global AI Debates — Registration

Debate Topics Primary School Speech (Ages 7–10) — 5 minute speech, solo: “We support the development of self-driving cars.” Middle School Speech (Ages 11–13) — 7 minute speech, solo: “There are jobs that AI should not be allowed to do, even if it is as good as humans.” High School Speech (Ages 14–18) — 7 minute speech, solo: “AIs should be granted the rights of legal persons.” Essay & Debate (Any age, teams of 2–5) — 1500 word essay, Pro or Con: “AIs should be granted the rights of legal persons.” Note: Citations and bibliography do not count toward the word total. Essays exceeding the word count will not be considered.

Prize Pool — $3,500 (funded by the Future of Life Institute) Division | 1st | 2nd | 3rd Essay & Debate (top team) | $1,000 | $350 | $200 Primary School Speech (Ages 7–10) | $400 | $150 | $100 Middle School Speech (Ages 11–13) | $400 | $150 | $100 High School Speech (Ages 14–18) | $400 | $150 | $100 Note: Plus a $100 prize for the top participant from any Urban Debate League in each division. Top essays and speeches will be published on the Future of Life Institute website.

Registration & Pricing Early bird discount: Register before July 1, 2026 with code EARLYBIRD to receive 20% off all entries (applies to both pricing tiers below). Final registration deadline: November 14, 2026. Pricing: - Standard Entry: $120 per entry (1 to 9 entries) - Bulk Entry: $100 per entry (10 or more entries)