21/03/2024

EU Lawmakers Reach Agreement on AI Act

After months of intensive negotiations, European Union legislators have reached a political agreement on the artificial intelligence (AI) act.

The draft AI act, which is being hailed as the world's first binding horizontal regulation on AI, creates a comprehensive framework for the use and provision of AI systems within the EU. At the centre of this is a differentiated classification system that assigns different requirements and obligations based on a 'risk-based approach'. According to the provisions of the act, AI systems that pose 'unacceptable' risks will be completely prohibited. Meanwhile, a category of 'high-risk' AI systems that have the potential to affect people's health, safety or fundamental rights will be permitted but will be subject to strict requirements in order to gain access to the EU market.

The regulation also addresses concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of AI systems. Special information requirements apply to AI systems that are categorised as posing a limited risk due to their lack of transparency and will be subject to specific information and transparency requirements. Conversely, those presenting minimal risk will not be subject to additional obligations.

However, the AI act's journey is not yet complete. It must also secure endorsement from the Council and be published in the EU's Official Journal before it can come into effect.

All the AI Act regulatory requirements, concerning standards of safety, accuracy, reliability, transparency, and ethical AI will be taken into account in MELISSA project outcomes and deliverables.

Press release: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19015/artificial-intelligence-act-meps-adopt-landmark-law