In this opinion piece, Jonathan Freedland examines Tony Blair’s recent extensive essay on the future of Britain and global politics, arguing that despite Blair’s claim to be focused on future challenges, his thinking remains rooted in outdated assumptions.

Blair’s intervention, released strategically during a parliamentary recess, has drawn significant attention and criticism across political circles, unexpectedly uniting senior Labour figures in opposition to his arguments.

The article highlights Blair’s continued belief in a strong, unwavering UK–US alliance, even under Donald Trump’s leadership, particularly regarding support for controversial military actions involving Iran.

Critics argue this reflects a continuation of the foreign policy instincts that defined Blair’s premiership and led to the Iraq War, suggesting he has not fully absorbed the lessons of that period.

Freedland also questions Blair’s analysis of recent geopolitical shifts, including the rise of a multipolar world dominated by the US, China, and India, and argues that Blair underestimates how much the global order has changed since the early 2000s.

The essay further notes Blair’s scepticism towards rejoining the European Union, based on the belief that the EU is overly focused on regulation rather than innovation, a view the author considers out of step with contemporary debates about technology governance.A significant portion of the critique focuses on Blair’s emphasis on artificial intelligence and technological transformation.

The article raises concerns about the influence of funding relationships between the Tony Blair Institute and major technology investors, suggesting potential alignment with corporate interests in AI development.

Freedland concludes that while Blair remains an effective communicator with political instincts that still shape debate, his worldview appears increasingly distant from current political realities, particularly on issues such as inequality, poverty, and modern European cooperation.