The dizzying advance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has generated ethical debates and concerns about its impact on society. To address these challenges, the European Parliament passed a new law on March 13, 2024, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the development and use of AI in the European Union (EU).

Definition of the Artificial Intelligence system

The formula adopted from the artificial intelligence system for its exact definition is that of "a machine-based system designed to operate with different levels of autonomy, which can show adaptability after deployment and which, for explicit or implicit purposes, infers from the input information it receives how to generate output information,  such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions, which can influence physical or virtual environments."

The new rules of the proposed regulation seek to ensure the safety and security of European citizens, while fostering innovation and competitiveness in the field of AI. One of the key aspects of this legislation is the classification of AI systems into different levels of risk, from low to high, determined by their potential to cause harm.

Risk Assessments

Under the law, AI systems deemed high-risk, such as those used in healthcare, autonomous transportation, and the administration of justice, will be subject to stricter transparency, oversight, and control requirements. This includes the obligation to carry out risk assessments, keep detailed records, and ensure the traceability and explainability of decisions made by these systems.

In addition, the regulation prohibits certain AI practices that are considered particularly dangerous or discriminatory, such as the use of real-time facial recognition technologies for mass surveillance purposes, except in specific and strictly regulated cases. This reflects the EU's commitment to protecting the individual rights and privacy of citizens.

Governance system

Another crucial aspect is the creation of an EU-wide AI governance system, which will monitor compliance with these rules and ensure consistency in their implementation across Member States. Cooperation and coordination mechanisms between national authorities and the European Commission will be established to address cross-border challenges and promote best practices.

These new regulations represent a significant step towards ethical and responsible AI in Europe. By fostering responsible innovation and protecting fundamental rights, the EU seeks to lead the development of AI globally, setting a standard for the safe and ethical adoption of this technology.

Application

Its implementation will require a series of coordinated actions and a combination of regulatory, educational, and collaborative approaches to ensure that the technology is used ethically, safely, and beneficially. All of this will require a series of guidelines and technical standards, training, awareness-raising, supervision, evaluation and monitoring, as well as financial support for companies to adapt to regulatory requirements.

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