By Tony Porter, Privacy Officer at AI Corsight
The European Union AI Pact marks a crucial step towards the formation of a comprehensive and ethical framework for artificial intelligence in the Member States. This initiative comes as a proactive call to organisations, urging them to align with the upcoming AI Act, which focuses on mitigating the risks associated with AI, in particular those that impact health, safety and fundamental rights. By committing to the AI Pact, participants agree to implement measures that improve transparency, manage risks and foster an environment of trust in AI technologies. These commitments are preparatory steps for the broader regulatory changes planned with the adoption of the EU AI Act, aimed at creating a unified regulatory framework across all EU countries.
The importance of such a pact cannot be underestimated. It represents a collective European response to the global challenge of managing the ethical implications of AI. As AI technology becomes more integrated into everyday life, the need for a strong ethical framework becomes more evident. I am very proud to announce that Corsight AI is the first facial recognition solution provider to join the AI Pact. The latter helps to set high standards for the use of AI, ensuring that technological advances do not come at the expense of human rights or security.
Furthermore, the AI Compact serves as a model for the rest of the world, as it shows how broad coalitions of stakeholders can work together to guide the ethical development of new technologies. It encourages a shift towards more transparent and accountable AI applications, fostering safer and more reliable deployment of AI technologies.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, the AI Pact’s foresight in anticipating regulatory needs and ethical concerns will undoubtedly position Europe at the forefront of developing ethical AI. This initiative does more than just set standards: it fosters a better understanding of the importance of integrating ethical considerations into the fabric of technological innovation.
This proactive commitment to ethical AI, as outlined in the AI Compact, underscores the critical need for ongoing dialogue among AI stakeholders across sectors and industries. It underscores the importance of a unified approach to AI governance that prioritizes human well-being, ensuring that AI serves as a tool to enhance the public good rather than a source of risk.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of AI integration, the principles and commitments of the European AI Pact will play a key role in building a safe, responsible and inclusive future for AI technology. It exemplifies the kind of leadership and collaboration needed to ensure that AI develops within a framework that respects human values and fosters public trust.
About the author
Tony Porter, OBE QPM LLB, Privacy Officer at AI Corsightpreviously served as Surveillance Camera Commissioner for England and Wales under the Protection of Freedoms Act. He was Vice President and Head of Physical Security Intelligence at Barclays and Deputy Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police before heading the North West Counter Terrorism Unit.
Article topics
AI Law | AI Pact | biometrics | Corsight | ethics | EU | facial recognition | regulation | Responsible AI
