The European Union’s AI Act 2024: A Game-Changer for Data Protection and Market Harmonization
The European Union’s AI Act 2024 is a groundbreaking legislation that aims to establish a robust framework for the development, deployment, and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) within the EU. As the world grapples with the vast potential of AI, the EU is taking a proactive approach to ensure that its citizens’ personal data is protected and that the internal market is harmonized.
The Context: A Need for AI Governance
The EU’s AI Act is built upon the provisions of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TEFU), specifically Article 16, which enshrines the protection of EU citizens’ personal data, and Article 114, which authorizes the EU legislator to harmonize national laws and regulations for establishing and ensuring the functioning of the EU internal market. The need for AI governance is driven by the rapid growth of AI applications, which pose significant risks to individuals and society as a whole.
Risk Categories: A Comprehensive Approach
The EU AI Act categorizes AI risks into three categories: (1) High-risk, (2) Substantial harm, and (3) Low-risk. Each category is explained in detail, providing a comprehensive approach to addressing the potential risks associated with AI deployment. For instance, high-risk AI applications, such as those used in healthcare or finance, require stricter regulations to ensure public trust and safety.
Future Applications and Implications
Daniel Mügge, a prominent scholar, argues that the EU AI Act is not just about regulating AI but also about shaping the future of AI governance. The Act’s provisions will have significant implications for the development of AI, as they will influence the way AI is designed, deployed, and regulated. The EU’s AI Act is a critical step towards establishing a global standard for AI governance, and its success will depend on effective collaboration between governments, industries, and civil society.
Conclusion
The European Union’s AI Act 2024 is a landmark legislation that has the potential to shape the future of AI governance and data protection within the EU. By understanding the context and implications of the Act, we can better appreciate its significance and the potential benefits it will bring to individuals and society as a whole. As we move forward, it is essential to continue monitoring the development and deployment of AI, ensuring that it is designed and regulated in a way that benefits everyone.
Originally published on https://www.orfonline.org/research/the-european-union-a-i-act-2024-understanding-the-context-and-exploring-its-future
