Europe is encountering various challenges concerning artificial intelligence, from the ongoing governmental strategy discussions to the political hurdles surrounding AI. On November 14, the PromethEUs think tank presented a report focusing on AI legislation in the EU, the impact of artificial intelligence, and its implications for businesses.
The think tank system, consisting of the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research from Greece, the Institute of Public Policy from Portugal, and the Elcano Royal Institute from Spain, alongside other Southern German think tanks, shared insights during a gathering in Brussels. The discussions revolved around the future prospects for Europe’s competitiveness in the realm of AI.
AI Legislation in the EU
The EU’s AI Law represents a groundbreaking legislative initiative and the world’s first endeavor to regulate AI based on risk assessment. The definition of AI remains a point of contention in the trilogue discussions, as highlighted by Steffen Hoernig, a professor at Nova School of Business and Economics. Clarifying which systems fall under the purview of the AI Law is crucial. EU policymakers are awaiting updates from the OECD on its AI definition. Conversations are ongoing regarding the inclusion of biological AI in the risk category and the potential establishment of an AI Board or Office. Discrepancies in regional perspectives, especially concerning the latter, have been noted. The recent inclusion of ChatGPT post-draft poses a challenge, as the text does not cover it adequately. Fundamental concepts and the overarching goal of AI remain pivotal issues.
Artificial Intelligence Landscape
While conceptual AI technologies like ChatGPT are prominent, Stefano della Empoli, president of the Institute for Competitiveness, highlighted the broader spectrum of AI tools. Italy, Spain, Greece, and Portugal rank averagely in conceptual AI adoption compared to Nordic EU countries. Safety concerns around conceptual AI’s security risks and potential amplification of existing threats were raised by Raquel Jorge from the Elcano Royal Institute. Skepticism persists regarding the military applications of relational AI, especially in dual-use scenarios.
AI Impact on Businesses
Assessing the legislative landscape in the PromethEUs network countries and gauging AI’s effects on entrepreneurial ventures were key objectives. Aggelos Tsakanikas, an associate professor at the National Technical University of Athens, emphasized the evolving nature of AI definitions and its practical implications for businesses. A SWOT analysis was conducted to delve into significant AI-related issues, including challenges like skill shortages, societal resistance, and financial implications.
In conclusion, the discussions underscored the complexity and multifaceted nature of AI regulation, adoption, and its impact on businesses, urging a nuanced approach to address the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in Europe.
