Europe has crossed the finishing line of the AI Act, a monumental framework of regulations governing artificial intelligence.
With an overwhelming majority, the European Parliament has granted final approval to the AI Act, which awaits adoption by the European Council to become law. This step is largely seen as a formality. Previously, EU ambassadors gave their unanimous approval, overcoming the final hurdles to the legislation.
The new Act solidifies the EU’s position as a global leader in the regulation of this burgeoning technology.
What is in the AI Act?
The AI Act represents a delicate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and environmental sustainability.
Notably, the legislation adopts a risk-based approach, imposing obligations on AI developers and providers according to the identified levels of risk. Bans are enforced when risks are deemed unacceptable, such as in cases of manipulative techniques, predictive policing, and emotion recognition, which are prohibited in educational and workplace settings.
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Facial recognition, on the other hand, is restricted to law enforcement agencies and subject to stringent conditions.
An addition to the legislation is the section addressing generative AI, introduced to address concerns raised by the rapid proliferation of systems like ChatGPT.
Majority vote in favour of AI Act
“Democracy 1 – Lobby 0,” proclaimed Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton, celebrating the legislation’s resilience against pressure from certain quarters.
The vote garnered enthusiastic responses across Europe, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailing the new rules as a “model for reliable AI worldwide.”
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said she was “proud” on behalf of MEPs, emphasising the act’s blend of “leadership, innovation and the respect for fundamental rights”. The co-rapporteur of the AI Act, Brando Benifei, however criticised the Italian government’s perceived absence and confusion during negotiations.
What was the response in Italy?
Italy’s government celebrated the vote, with officials lauding the efforts to advocate for clear, concise rules rather than relying on self-regulation by companies. However, the 5-Star Movement cautioned against potential “entry barriers, increasing divides and discouraging European innovation.”
Despite political divisions, the final text “reflects the priorities of the European Parliament a great deal, something that does not happen very often”, noted the head of the Democratic Party delegation. Earlier this week, the Prime Minister announced Italy is preparing its own AI Law.
Some criticism of the Act
Critics, including Amnesty International, expressed disappointment over the prioritisation of industry and law enforcement interests over the protection of human rights.
Business Europe called for greater support for innovative companies and improved access to capital and funding for AI development. Indeed, as Europe celebrates this milestone, it acknowledges the need to accelerate progress in the AI race.
