<p>In recent months, there has been a noticeable shift toward AI deregulation and soft law, particularly in the U.S.—exemplified by Trump’s revocation of Biden’s executive order—and, to a lesser extent, in the E.U., as seen in the adoption of a voluntary code of conduct for providers of general-purpose AI. In contrast to these political trends, this paper argues that the significant risks posed by AI technologies call for stronger and more effective governance mechanisms. It presents ten key reasons why robust AI regulation is essential: the impact of AI on labor markets and social equity (i.e., the global/digital divide); (agentic) AI biases and discrimination; infringements on privacy; the amplification of harmful online content, including dangerous and hate speech and disinformation; business and human rights concerns; environmental consequences; the growing politico-economic power of big tech companies; threats to democracy and the rule of law; and the military implications of emerging AI technologies. Finally, the paper explores potential pathways for future AI regulation (soft vs. hard law and constitutional AI vs. AI guardrails) and proposes strategies to enhance existing regulatory frameworks, such as the E.U.’s AI Act and competition policy.</p>