The EU Enacts the World's First AI Law: What's Next?
In a landmark move, the European Parliament has green-lighted the Artificial Intelligence Act, setting a global precedent. This legislation is crafted to curb risks, ensure fairness, and promote transparency in AI applications.
The act introduces a pioneering framework for categorizing AI systems according to their risk profile and potential societal impacts, assigning tailored duties for each tier.
- Biometric classification based on sensitive data;
- Random facial scanning or extracting facial images from the web to build recognition databases;
- Social scoring practices;
- Emotion recognition in workplaces and schools.
Moreover, AI that manipulates behavior or preys on human vulnerabilities is explicitly banned, addressing a grave concern that is already manifest. Our dedicated article had already delved into the repercussions of AI companions.
EU AI Systems Bans: A Closer Look
The act incorporates bans on specific AI applications that compromise citizen rights. It notably forbids:- Biometric classification based on sensitive data;
- Random facial scanning or extracting facial images from the web to build recognition databases;
- Social scoring practices;
- Emotion recognition in workplaces and schools.
Moreover, AI that manipulates behavior or preys on human vulnerabilities is explicitly banned, addressing a grave concern that is already manifest. Our dedicated article had already delved into the repercussions of AI companions.
Law Enforcement Exemptions
The statute carves out exceptions for the use of real-time biometric identification by law enforcement under tightly controlled circumstances, such as in the search for missing persons or the prevention of terrorist acts, conditional upon adherence to stringent security protocols and obtaining necessary approvals.AI Risk Spectrum
High-risk classifications apply to AI technologies deployed in sectors such as:- Essential infrastructure;
- Educational or vocational training;
- Public and private sector services (healthcare, banking);
- Law enforcement activities;
- Immigration management;
- Judicial operations;
- Democratic engagements.
These applications are mandated to assess and mitigate risks, maintain operational logs, uphold transparency and accuracy, and ensure human oversight.
Risks deemed limited are associated with transparency deficits in AI use. For example, there must be clear disclosure when users are interacting with AI-driven chatbots, and creators must flag AI-generated content, particularly to address the challenges posed by deepfakes, which we have also discussed.
The legislation facilitates the liberal use of AI posing minimal risk, including AI-enhanced video games or spam filters. Most AI systems currently operational within the EU are classified under this low-risk category.
Risks deemed limited are associated with transparency deficits in AI use. For example, there must be clear disclosure when users are interacting with AI-driven chatbots, and creators must flag AI-generated content, particularly to address the challenges posed by deepfakes, which we have also discussed.
The legislation facilitates the liberal use of AI posing minimal risk, including AI-enhanced video games or spam filters. Most AI systems currently operational within the EU are classified under this low-risk category.
Regulatory Oversight and Sectoral Progress
The European AI Office, in collaboration with the Commission, is tasked with monitoring compliance and facilitating the Act's rollout, besides encouraging sectoral innovation and research.Forward Path
Awaiting final legal validation and Council endorsement, the Act is set to be enforceable 20 days post-publication, with a comprehensive application phased in over 24-36 months, contingent upon specific provisions.In Summary
The EU's Artificial Intelligence Act is warmly welcomed for its protective stance on citizen rights, safety, and privacy, effectively shielding against the perils of AI and dispelling fears of a dystopian AI-dominated future.
Dmytro Psevdonimenko
Author
Has been exploring the enigmas of the crypto industry since 2017, transforming them into accessible narratives. Relies on dark chocolate and nuts as a secret source of energy and inspiration.
