Ahead of the game - In chess and beyond

Chess speaks to society and speaks about society; it reflects its evolution. As a combination of Art, Science, and Sport, chess serves as a genuine social marker. Since the 6th century, it has reflected the evolution of global geopolitics and acted as a technological laboratory, particularly supporting the emergence of computing and artificial intelligence.

Analyzing this close connection between chess and society allows us to better understand the major challenges we face in response to the digital revolution.

The evolution of the chess world serves as an example in an unstable contemporary world, providing objective and sometimes disruptive insights for the future of our human society in an augmented world.


Jean-Marc Pailhol holds degrees in Public Law, from Science Po and from ESSEC. He has served as a Board member for several European financial sector organizations and led marketing and communications, followed by global strategic partnerships, for the Allianz Group from 2015 to 2023. He is also an investor in several start-ups.

Mathilde Choisy holds degrees in neuropsychology and child development psychology. A multiple-time French youth and University champion, she led the French youth teams and served as the General Director of the French Chess Federation until 2021. She is now an executive coach.

Bachar Kouatly graduated from Sciences Po and became the first French Chess Grandmaster in 1989. He has served as Deputy President of FIDE and as President of the French Chess Federation. He has divided his career between the world of chess and the business world.