New European AI laws hope to influence global tech regulations

Draft versions of the AI Act were put forwarded in 2021, but they quickly became outdated and insufficient in light of the emergence of general-purpose AI models, like those that power ChatGPT.

The new laws emphasise the need for accountability and transparency in a rapidly evolving technological landscape by subjecting high-risk AI systems to strict requirements, including transparency measures, human oversight, and robust testing protocols.

This means that those in charge of the most popular AI technology – Google and OpenAI, for example – and others that generate manipulated images or deepfakes will be required to add disclaimers to their content.

Fines of up to 7 percent of global sales will be administered to companies that breach these regulations.

Organisations are also banned from using indiscriminate image scraping from the internet to create AI facial recognition software. They may only use AI facial recognition when granted permission in specific safety and national security exemptions.

The new bill outlines clear guidelines for the responsible use of AI, with a focus on minimising bias and discrimination, as well as ensuring the fair treatment of individuals.

One of the key aspects of the legislation is its intention to establish a European Artificial Intelligence Board, which would oversee the implementation and enforcement of these regulations across member states.

The board would ensure a unified approach to AI governance while respecting the diverse needs of each nation.

The responses of industry leaders and advocacy groups to the new legislation have been mixed.

While some see the initiative as a necessary step towards safeguarding citizens from potential AI-related risks, others are concerned about the potential impact on innovation and competitiveness in the global tech market.

If European laws are too strict, for example, they risk hindering the success of tech companies in the region while allowing overseas nations to gain industry dominance thanks to being granted more freedom to develop and experiment with AI tools.

That said, the EU’s leading stance in AI regulation is expected to spark further conversations about the ethical implications of the technology around the globe. Its legislation could even serve as a blueprint for other regions looking to strike a balance between its advancement and the protection of fundamental rights.

One thing is for sure, Artificial Intelligence is beginning to influence many aspects of our day-to-day lives. Governing the technology will be a crucial topic amongst world leaders as that role increases in line with AI’s growing capabilities.