Regulations on artificial intelligence are adopted by the European Union​

Following in-depth discussions and careful consideration, the European Union has implemented a comprehensive set of rules and regulations to govern the utilization of AI technologies. This landmark achievement not only demonstrates the EU’s commitment to addressing the complex issues surrounding AI but also sets a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges. The far-reaching consequences of these rules are expected to extend beyond the borders of the EU, potentially shaping the global landscape of AI governance and serving as a blueprint for future regulations worldwide.

The AI Act is focused on finding the right equilibrium between fostering advancements in AI technology and protecting essential values such as human rights, democracy, and environmental conservation. It adopts a risk-centric approach that assigns different levels of responsibilities based on the potential impact and risks associated with various AI systems. For instance, developers of high-risk AI solutions are required to conduct thorough risk assessments to ensure compliance with legal requirements before introducing their products to the market.

1. The Act sets forth clear guidelines and restrictions on certain AI practices that are considered too risky or unethical. These practices include the development and implementation of discriminatory biometric categorization systems that rely on sensitive characteristics such as race or gender. Additionally, the Act prohibits the creation of recognition databases by collecting facial images from public areas, as this raises concerns about privacy and surveillance.

2. Furthermore, the Act addresses the use of AI systems for social scoring, which involves evaluating individuals based on their behavior and assigning them a score that can impact various aspects of their lives. This practice is seen as manipulative and potentially infringing on personal freedoms. The Act also prohibits the use of AI systems for behavior manipulation, as this raises ethical concerns about influencing individuals without their consent.

   Moreover, the Act recognizes the importance of protecting vulnerabilities and preventing their exploitation through AI systems. It aims to prevent the development and deployment of AI technologies that can exploit vulnerabilities in individuals or systems, as this can lead to significant harm and breaches of security. While the Act generally prohibits the use of biometric identification systems by law enforcement agencies, it acknowledges that there may be exceptional circumstances where the use of such systems is necessary. These exceptions would be subject to strict conditions and safeguards to ensure that they are used responsibly and in accordance with human rights and privacy principles.

   Overall, the Act aims to strike a balance between promoting the beneficial use of AI technologies and safeguarding against potential risks and ethical concerns. It provides a framework for regulating specific AI practices that are deemed too risky or unethical, while allowing for certain exceptions in limited circumstances.