Mixed Reactions as EU Approves Controversial AI Act
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The European Parliament today approved the AI Act, the first-ever regulatory framework governing the use of AI systems. The legislation passed with an overwhelming majority of 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 abstentions.
“This is a historic day,” said Italian lawmaker Brando Benifei, co-lead on the AI Act. “We have the first regulation in the world which puts a clear path for safe and human-centric development of AI.”
The AI Act will categorise AI systems into four tiers based on their potential risk to society. High-risk applications like self-driving cars will face strict requirements before being allowed on the EU market. Lower risk systems will have fewer obligations.
“The central focus now is on the application and adherence by corporations and institutions,” Benifei expressed. “We’re also devising additional AI rules for workplace conditions.”
The Romanian counterpart, Dragoş Tudorache, communicated that the EU strives to advocate these ground-breaking regulations globally. “We’ve to be receptive to collaborate with others in constructing governance with similar minded parties.”
🚨BREAKING: The European Parliament has just PASSED the AI Act. Here’s what we all need to understand:
➵ The AI Act employs a risk-oriented approach. Some AI systems are prohibited, such as those concerning:
– Cognitive behavioural manipulation of individuals or certain vulnerable groups;
– Social… pic.twitter.com/JiaA8qXEGx
The comprehensive AI regulations come into action in May 2025, whereas obligations for high-danger systems activate after three years. National supervisory institutions will scrutinize adherence.
Reaction was mixed on whether the Act properly balances innovation with protecting rights.
Curtis Wilson, a data scientist at Synopsys, believes it will build public trust: “The strict rules and punishing fines will deter careless developers, and help customers be more confident in using AI systems…Ensuring all AI developers adhere to these standards is to everyone’s benefit.”
However, Mher Hakobyan from Amnesty International criticised the legislation as favouring industry over human rights: “It is disappointing that the EU chose to prioritise interests of industry and law enforcement over protecting people…It lacks proper transparency and accountability provisions, which will likely exacerbate abuses.”
Companies now face the challenge of overhauling practices to comply.
Marcus Evans, a data privacy lawyer, weighed in: “Companies should develop and uphold rigorous AI governance to leverage technology to its full potential and remain compliant with the new framework. Preparations need to begin with immediacy to avoid breaching regulations.”
In the aftermath of lengthy negotiations, the AI Act exemplifies the EU’s global leadership ambition concerning this groundbreaking technology. However, the persistence of dissenting opinions underlines the complications inherent in striking an optimal compromise.
Photograph by Tabrez Syed sourced from Unsplash.
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