Collapsing the DSM could lead to a greater gap between the EU and other regions in Artificial Intelligence advancements.
The European Union is taking significant steps to shape its artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with the European Commission set to publish a strategy paper by the end of 2025. This strategy, part of a broader effort to ensure policies for AI will be part of a single framework, aims to position the EU as a competitive force in the digital age.
Amidst this development, some EU member states have started adopting their own AI initiatives, which could potentially disrupt the overall EU AI development. To prevent a patchwork of conflicting regulations, the EU should preempt national governments, similar to its approach with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Malta has launched a voluntary AI certification program based on its AI ethical framework, suggesting that some countries could adopt more stringent rules than others, potentially exposing companies to legal disarray. The Danish Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs recently presented a new voluntary labeling system for ethical and responsible use of data. However, the EU should ensure that any national guidelines, labeling schemes, or reporting on criteria for responsible and ethical use of AI remain voluntary.
The European Commission's High-Level Expert Group on AI has produced an assessment list for ethical AI systems. Feedback from companies testing these guidelines suggests the need for revisions, with calls for the list to be more practical and flexible. Policymakers should continue to consult industry to craft pragmatic and effective rules.
One concern raised is that the assessment list is too closely related to and in some instances overlaps with the requirements set in the GDPR. The GDPR could clash with stricter rules on decision-making systems that a German federal officer suggested adopting. A policymaker in the Netherlands proposed creating a mandatory register for AI systems whose automated decisions have a significant impact on people's lives. Germany's Data Ethics Commission recently recommended legislation to regulate the development of algorithmic systems and the use of data with prescriptive rules.
To move forward as a common, credible, and competitive force in the digital age, the EU should ensure member states do not convert voluntary arrangements to legislative mandates. Businesses developing and using AI need a harmonized EU market to achieve their full potential. Conflicting national laws will make it harder for EU firms to compete with U.S. and Chinese counterparts.
The EU's AI strategy, coordinated action plan on AI, and forthcoming legal framework for AI aim to ensure that the EU does not continue to fall behind the United States and China in AI development and use. The strategy development involves high-level officials from the Commissionβs Joint Research Centre (JRC) and Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD), as well as Members of the European Parliament such as Dr. Patrick Breyer who is engaged in AI-related debates. The key EU politicians involved in the development of the EU artificial intelligence strategy in the coming months include these bodies.
In conclusion, the EU's AI strategy is a fundamental condition for businesses to develop, scale, and reap the benefits of AI across borders. The EU should assert its leadership in further developing and strengthening its AI strategy to remain competitive in the global AI race.
