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Europe’s policymakers are quickly responding to technologies like ChatGPT by introducing strict regulations and guidance for tech firms. This week stands out as a history-making moment in the EU’s efforts to establish rules around artificial intelligence.
Why?
On Wednesday, the European Parliament officially approved the Artificial Intelligence Act, which adopts a risk-based approach to ensure companies comply with legal standards before launching products to the public.
The following day, under separate legislation, the European Commission requested reports from various tech platforms, including Bing, Facebook, Google Search, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and X, regarding their measures to mitigate the risks associated with generative AI.
The EU’s main concerns revolve around AI hallucinations, the widespread distribution of deepfakes, and the potential for automated AI manipulation to influence elections.
However, negative feedback is swarming the tech community (and others) in lieu of the legislation, with some researchers arguing that it doesn’t address the issues well enough.
According to several voices in the tech space, there are significant loopholes and “weak” regulations that pose threats to creativity, credit, and more. They warn that The European Commission should fear tech monopolies in particular.
Last month, concerns about AI monopolies surfaced when it was revealed that French start-up Mistral AI formed a partnership with Microsoft. This development was surprising to some in the EU, especially since France advocated for concessions to the AI Act to support open-source companies like Mistral.
But a few startups happily accept the new regulation, crediting it for bringing relief and positive change. According to Giskard CEO Alex Combessie, they’re confident the checks and balances can be implemented effectively, despite systemic risks.
Now that the AI Act is finalized, the focus shifts to effective implementation and enforcement. Risto Uuk, the EU research lead at the non-profit Future of Life Institute, claims this also involves paying attention to complementary legislation.
One legislation is the AI Liability Directive, designed to facilitate liability claims for damages caused by AI-enabled products and services. The establishment of the EU AI Office also aims to streamline the enforcement of rules surrounding AI.
We’re divided in the realm of artificial intelligence, some fearing its potential and others embracing it. The one truth we all accept?
The acknowledgment that it’s here and making an impact on industries all over the world.
