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The European Union Parliament has taken an important step towards regulating artificial intelligence (AI) technology within its borders. On Wednesday, it approved the AI law, marking a historic vote with 523 members in favor, 46 against and 49 abstentions. This legislation is the first of its kind in the world and aims to address the potential risks associated with AI, positioning Europe as a global leader in digital and technological innovation. Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, highlighted the importance of this legislation, saying: “The European Parliament has passed the most advanced artificial intelligence legislation in the world. Our groundbreaking AI law will enable us to be world leaders in digital and technological innovation, based on the EU’s democratic values. Because Europe has the capacity to set the tone globally and lead responsibly.”
Objectives, impact and way forward of the AI Act
THE AI Law The main objective is to define clear requirements and obligations for AI developers and deployers, focusing particularly on specific uses of AI. It also aims to reduce administrative and financial burdens on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This regulation is part of a broader set of policy measures designed to foster the development of trustworthy AI in the EU, including AI Innovation Package and the Coordinated plan on AI. These initiatives aim to ensure the security and fundamental rights of individuals and businesses, promote AI adoption, investment and innovation, and make Europe a haven for trustworthy AI .
At the heart of the AI Law is the creation of a comprehensive legal framework that encourages the development of AI systems that are safe, respect fundamental rights and adhere to ethical standards. By addressing the risks posed by powerful AI models, the legislation aims to ensure that AI technologies are both beneficial and safe for society.
The need for such regulation arises from the potential risks associated with AI technologies. Some AI systems may lead to outcomes that may unfairly disadvantage individuals, such as in decisions about employment or access to public benefits, without clear explanations for these decisions. Existing laws provide some protection, but are considered insufficient to address the unique challenges posed by AI.
High Risk or Low Risk: Classification under the Act
The AI Act introduces a risk-based approach to regulation, categorizing AI systems based on the level of risk they pose, from unacceptable to minimal. It prohibits AI practices that threaten the safety and rights of individuals, sets strict requirements for high-risk AI applications, and establishes transparency obligations for AI systems with limited risk. The legislation allows free use of AI applications considered to pose little or no risk, such as video games and spam filters.
For high-risk AI systems, the law imposes a series of obligations before they can be introduced to the market. These include rigorous risk assessment, high-quality data sets to minimize risks, recording of activities for traceability, comprehensive documentation and human monitoring measures. Remote biometric identification systems, used in publicly accessible spaces for law enforcement, are subject to strict requirements, with narrow exceptions for their use.
The law also addresses the challenges posed by general-purpose AI models, by introducing transparency and risk management obligations. As AI technology is constantly evolving, the legislation is designed to be future-proof, ensuring that AI applications remain reliable after they are introduced to the market.
To oversee the application and implementation of the AI Law, the European AI Office was established within the Commission in February 2024. This entity is responsible for ensuring that AI technologies comply with human dignity, rights and promote trust. It plays a crucial role in promoting AI collaboration, innovation and research, participating in international dialogues and pushing for global alignment on AI governance. Through these efforts, the European AI Office aims to consolidate Europe’s leadership in the ethical and sustainable development of AI technologies.
The AI Act represents an important step that could profoundly influence sustainable development and ethical technology practices. By establishing a clear legal framework for AI, the law emphasizes the importance of transparency, security and ethical considerations, while highlighting the potential of AI to drive innovation In environnment management, energy technologiesAnd sustainable development initiatives.
