In “The European Union’s Approach to Artificial Intelligence: Fostering Excellence and Trust,” the European Union (EU) sets its sights on becoming a global leader in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) while prioritizing human-centric and trustworthy development. To achieve this, the EU has unveiled a comprehensive AI package encompassing various measures such as fostering a European approach to AI, reviewing the existing Coordinated Plan on AI, and proposing a regulatory framework for AI. The EU’s aim is to encourage the development and adoption of AI, promote an environment where AI thrives for the benefit of people and society, and establish strategic leadership in key sectors. Investing €1 billion per year through programs like Horizon Europe and Digital Europe, the EU aims to pave the way for advancements in AI. Moreover, to ensure trust in AI, the EU proposes the creation of a legal framework based on four levels of risk, as well as developing civil liability regulations and revamping sectoral safety legislation. Noteworthy milestones include the European Parliament’s negotiation position on AI in June 2023, and the launch of Spain’s first AI regulatory sandbox in December 2021. With this approach, the EU is poised to shape the future of AI and instill confidence in its responsible use.
EU’s Approach to Artificial Intelligence
In its approach to artificial intelligence (AI), the European Union (EU) places a strong emphasis on excellence and trust. The EU aims to position itself as a world-class hub for AI while ensuring that AI systems are human-centric and trustworthy. This comprehensive approach is manifested through the EU’s AI package, which consists of several components aimed at fostering excellence and building trust in AI.
Excellence and Trust as Key Focus
The EU recognizes the immense potential of AI and seeks to leverage it to enhance various aspects of society and the economy. To achieve this, the EU aims to enable the development and uptake of AI technologies and solutions. By creating an environment that supports innovation and collaboration, the EU strives to make Europe a place where AI thrives.
Additionally, the EU aims to ensure that AI benefits people and society as a whole. This involves taking ethical considerations into account and ensuring that AI systems are developed and implemented in a responsible manner. By putting people at the center of AI development, the EU aims to mitigate potential risks and maximize the positive impact of AI technologies.
Furthermore, the EU seeks to build strategic leadership in high-impact sectors by promoting the adoption of AI technologies across various industries. This strategic focus allows the EU to harness the potential of AI in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and energy. By prioritizing these sectors, the EU aims to drive innovation and economic growth while delivering social benefits.
Presenting the AI Package
To operationalize its approach to AI, the EU has presented an AI package that encompasses a communication on fostering a European approach to AI, a review of the Coordinated Plan on AI, and a regulatory framework proposal on AI. This comprehensive package reflects the EU’s commitment to fostering excellence and building trust in AI.
The communication on fostering a European approach to AI serves as a guideline for member states and stakeholders on how to develop and implement AI strategies in a harmonized manner. By providing a shared vision and a set of guiding principles, the communication aims to align efforts and promote collaboration across the EU.
The review of the Coordinated Plan on AI involves assessing the progress made since the plan was first introduced in 2018 and identifying areas for improvement. This review allows the EU to refine its strategic approach to AI and address any gaps or challenges that have emerged over time.
The regulatory framework proposal on AI aims to establish clear rules for the development, deployment, and use of AI systems within the EU. This proposal includes measures to ensure compliance, accountability, and transparency in AI applications. By setting clear standards and guidelines, the EU seeks to strike a balance between innovation and protection, making AI both trusted and secure.
Components of the AI Package
To foster excellence in AI, the EU plans to invest €1 billion per year in AI through the Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programs. These programs provide financial support and resources to AI research, development, and innovation initiatives. By investing in AI at such a scale, the EU aims to enhance its competitiveness in the global AI landscape and position itself as a leader in AI technologies.
Building trustworthy AI involves the development of a European legal framework for AI that addresses the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI technologies. This legal framework aims to provide clarity and guidance on the responsible development and use of AI systems. It also includes a civil liability framework for the digital age, ensuring that individuals and entities are held accountable for any harm caused by AI systems.
Furthermore, the EU plans to revise sectoral safety legislation to ensure that AI systems meet the necessary safety requirements. This revision will help address potential risks associated with AI applications and ensure the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.
A key aspect of the proposed legal framework for AI is the differentiation of AI systems based on their levels of risk. The EU has identified four levels of risk: unacceptable risk, high risk, limited risk, and minimal risk. Clear rules and obligations will be established for each level to mitigate risks and ensure the responsible deployment of AI systems.
In addition to the legal and regulatory measures, the EU recognizes the importance of addressing ethical and human rights considerations in the development and use of AI. By integrating these considerations into its approach, the EU aims to guarantee that AI technologies respect and promote fundamental rights, such as privacy, non-discrimination, and fairness.
Important Milestones
The European Parliament’s negotiating position on AI in June 2023 will be a significant milestone in shaping the future of AI regulation in the EU. This position will provide valuable insights and recommendations for further refining the regulatory framework and ensuring its effectiveness.
Another important milestone in the EU’s approach to AI is the launch of the first AI regulatory sandbox in Spain in December 2021. The regulatory sandbox will serve as a testing ground for innovative AI applications, allowing companies and developers to experiment with new ideas within a controlled environment. This initiative reflects the EU’s commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring that adequate safeguards and regulations are in place.
In conclusion, the EU’s approach to AI demonstrates its commitment to excellence and trust. By fostering excellence in AI through investments and strategic initiatives, and by building trustworthy AI through a comprehensive legal framework, the EU aims to position itself as a global leader in AI technologies. Through these efforts, the EU seeks to harness the potential of AI to benefit individuals, society, and the European economy as a whole.
