In this digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a very present tool in our lives. However, with the advancement of this technology comes a series of questions and ethical concerns about its use.
What happens when AI doesn’t have clear regulation? In this context, the European Law on Artificial Intelligence emerges, a regulation approved by the European Parliament with the aim of addressing these challenges and ensuring an ethical and responsible use of AI.
This law, which establishes a series of prohibitions, regulations and obligations for developers and users of AI systems, marks a milestone on the road to a fair and equitable digital society.
Find out everything you need to know about the European Law on Artificial Intelligence: from its objectives and scope to the practical implications it will have on our daily lives.
Context of AI regulation
The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence has generated an environment of dizzying innovation and radical change in various aspects of our lives.
As AI systems become more complex and ubiquitous, questions arise about how to protect people’s fundamental rights and ensure that technology is used for the common good.
In this context, the need for regulation has become imperative. The absence of a clear legal framework could lead to harmful practices that undermine trust in technology and put citizens’ privacy and security at risk.
Therefore, the European Union decides to approve the European Law on Artificial Intelligence. This legislation represents a milestone in the development of AI policies, as it sets the standards that guide the development and use of AIs in the European context.
Key aspects of the European Law on Artificial Intelligence
Among the key points of the law are:
Specific prohibitions
The law prohibits certain applications of artificial intelligence that pose a risk to the fundamental rights of citizens.
This includes capturing facial images from the internet or surveillance cameras for facial recognition databases, as well as developing biometric categorization systems based on sensitive characteristics, such as skin color.
Ethical use of AI
The use of AI to recognize the emotions of workers and students is prohibited, as well as the development of citizen scoring systems.
In addition, restrictions are established on “predictive policing” based solely on profiles, with exceptions contemplated for specific and authorized situations.
Exceptions for security forces
Certain exceptions are allowed for the use of biometric identification systems by law enforcement, as long as strict conditions are met.
Some of these conditions have to do with judicial authorization and the limitation of its use to specific circumstances, such as the prevention of terrorist attacks or the search for missing persons.
Transparency and accountability
Obligations are laid down for developers and users of AI systems in terms of transparency and accountability.
All residents of the European Union have the right to lodge complaints and receive explanations about decisions made using AI that affect their rights.
Impact on society and fundamental rights
The impact of the European Law on Artificial Intelligence on society and fundamental rights is significant. This regulation ensures that the development and use of artificial intelligence is done ethically and with respect for human rights.
By prohibiting practices such as indiscriminate facial recognition, biometric categorization based on sensitive characteristics, and manipulation of human behavior, the law protects the privacy and dignity of individuals.
In addition, by establishing safeguards for the use of AI by law enforcement and ensuring the right of citizens to lodge complaints and receive explanations about AI-based decisions, transparency and accountability are promoted.
Support for AI innovation and development
The European Law on Artificial Intelligence also promotes support for AI innovation and development, especially among SMEs and start-ups.
The legislation establishes measures to facilitate the access of these companies to controlled real-world testing spaces at the national level, allowing them to develop and train innovative AI before it is commercialized.
This fosters an environment conducive to experimentation and technological advancement, while lowering barriers to entry for smaller businesses.
In addition, by providing a clear and predictable regulatory framework, the law provides legal certainty to AI developers and users, allowing them to focus on innovation rather than worrying about legal and ethical issues.
Is the enactment of this law useful?
The European Law on Artificial Intelligence represents a crucial step towards establishing a robust and ethical regulatory framework for the use of AI in the European Union.
By prohibiting harmful practices and promoting transparency and accountability, this legislation seeks to protect citizens’ fundamental rights while encouraging innovation and technological development.
Recognize that AI has the potential to transform our society in significant ways. However, its application must be managed carefully to prevent abuse and ensure that it is used for the benefit of all.
The European Law on Artificial Intelligence strikes a crucial balance between promoting innovation and protecting human rights.
By providing a clear and coherent framework for the development and use of AI, this legislation lays the foundations for a fair, equitable and secure digital future in Europe and beyond.
Want to know more about AI? Visit our Artificial Intelligence page and make the most of it.
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