The European Union has officially adopted the AI Act (regulation (EU) 2024/1689), marking a historic milestone as the first-ever comprehensive legal framework governing Artificial Antelligence (AI) worldwide.
The AI Act is part of a broader initiative that includes the AI Innovation Package and the Coordinated Plan on AI, designed to foster the development and uptake of AI across the EU while safeguarding fundamental rights and promoting innovation.
Key Provisions of the AI Act:
- Risk-Based Approach: The AI Act categorises AI systems into four risk levels—unacceptable, high, limited, and minimal. High-risk AI systems, such as those used in critical infrastructures, law enforcement, and employment, are subject to obligations to ensure safety, transparency, and accountability.
- Transparency and Human Oversight: The Act mandates transparency obligations, ensuring that users are aware when they are interacting with AI systems.
- Prohibition of Unacceptable AI Practices: AI systems deemed to pose an unacceptable risk, including those used for social scoring by governments, are banned outright.
- Governance and Enforcement: The European AI Office, established within the European Commission, will oversee the implementation and enforcement of the AI Act, working closely with member states to ensure compliance and promote global cooperation on AI governance.
The AI Act is designed with a future-proof approach, allowing regulations to evolve alongside rapidly advancing AI technologies. It will be fully applicable by August 2026. As AI continues to shape the future of technology and society, the AI Act aims to strike a balance between innovation and regulation, ensuring that AI advancements benefit all Europeans while safeguarding their rights and safety.
