As of August 2nd, the EU AI Act has come into effect, marking the beginning of a new era in AI regulation within the European Union. The implementation of this act will be done in phases, with the prohibition of high-risk AI coming into force next February, followed by general purpose AI regulations in August of the following year, alongside a review of the legislation and the establishment of national AI authorities. The EU is also expected to issue delegated acts to further refine existing legislation and create codes of practice for prohibited AI.
In a surprising move, the French police have been utilizing AI for security purposes at the Olympics, which could potentially provide feedback to lawmakers despite the fact that such usage of AI is currently forbidden. This raises important questions about the boundaries of AI regulation and the potential need for flexibility in certain circumstances. The progress of AI implementation in various sectors will undoubtedly impact future legislation and the development of AI technology on a broader scale.
The structure of the EU AI Office has also been outlined, with key roles such as a lead scientific officer and an international affairs officer being established. The EU AI Advisory Board has already had its first meeting, highlighting the importance of collaboration with stakeholders in shaping future AI policies. Additionally, an AI Pact has been formed to facilitate dialogue with corporate entities, further emphasizing the importance of cooperation between government and industry.
The EU AI Office, led by Lucilla Sioli, a seasoned EU official, will consist of five sub-units to oversee various aspects of AI regulation and implementation. As hiring for the new office progresses, it is evident that the majority of recruits come from existing EU officials or MEP research teams, raising concerns about the lack of industry experience within the organization. The inclusion of research and science experts will be crucial in ensuring that the EU AI Office is able to effectively navigate the complexities of AI regulation and technology.
The EU’s AI infrastructure is steadily coming together, with the establishment of the AI Act and the formation of the AI Office marking significant milestones in the regulation of AI within the European Union. As the implementation of the AI Act unfolds and the AI Office takes shape, it is essential for the EU to strike a balance between regulatory oversight and industry innovation. The coming months will undoubtedly be critical in shaping the future of AI policy within the EU and setting the stage for responsible and sustainable AI development.
