Today, the AI Act—the first-ever legal framework governing the use of AI systems—was passed by the European Parliament. A resounding majority of 523 votes in favor, 46 against, and 49 abstentions ensured the legislation’s passage.
Co-leader of the AI Act and Italian lawmaker Brando Benifei declared, “This is a historic day.” “We have the first global regulation that lays out a clear roadmap for the safe and human-centered development of artificial intelligence.”
AI systems will be divided into four groups under the AI Act according to how dangerous they could be to society. Strict regulations will need to be met before high-risk applications such as self-driving cars may be sold in the EU. Systems with lower risk will have fewer responsibilities.
Benifei said, “The implementation and compliance by businesses and institutions will be the main point now.” “We are also developing additional legislation pertaining to AI for workplace conditions.”
Romania’s Dragoş Tudorache, his colleague, stated that the EU wants to spread these innovative laws throughout the world. “We must be willing to collaborate with others to develop governance with like-minded parties.”
The general AI regulations will go into force in May 2025, and the high-risk systems regulations will follow three years later. National monitoring organizations will keep an eye on adherence.
varying perspectives on the impact
Opinions on whether the Act strikes the right balance between innovation and rights protection were divided.
According to Synopsys data scientist Curtis Wilson, “the strict rules and punishing fines will deter careless developers, and help customers be more confident in using AI systems…,” it will increase public trust.Everyone will gain if all AI developers follow these guidelines.
However, Amnesty International’s Mher Hakobyan criticized the bill, saying it prioritized business interests over human rights: “It is disappointing that the EU chose to prioritise industry and law enforcement interests over protecting people.”Its inadequate measures for accountability and transparency will probably make abuses worse.
Businesses now need to change their procedures in order to comply.
Data privacy attorney Marcus Evans gave the following advice: “To make the most of the technology and assure compliance with the new framework, businesses need to build and maintain comprehensive AI governance…In order to avoid breaking the regulations, they must begin planning right away.
The AI Act indicates that the EU wants to take the lead globally in this game-changing technology after years of talks. Yet, opposing views indicate that striking the correct balance still presents difficulties.