European Union policymakers recently finalized the AI Act, a groundbreaking regulation for artificial intelligence (AI). The world-first legislation establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework, addressing the risks associated with the rapid evolution of AI technology. Proposed in 2021, the framework classifies AI uses by risk levels, implementing stricter regulations on higher-risk applications. Roberta Metsola, the president of the European Parliament, characterized the law as “a balanced and human-centered approach” that is poised to “set the global standard for years to come.”
The AI Act bans harmful AI practices and introduces a risk-based approach, prohibiting the riskiest AI applications, including those exploiting specific vulnerable groups, biometrics for law enforcement, and deploying manipulative “subliminal techniques.” The law will go to the European Parliament for approval and is expected to pass, with facial recognition by law enforcement and governments facing stringent restrictions.
The rules won’t take effect until 2025 at the earliest, allowing technological evolution. The rise of generative AI technology has catapulted AI into the mainstream, impacting various sectors. In late October, President Joe Biden signed an executive order to support the responsible development of AI while protecting the public from its dangers.
In May, tech industry leaders issued a warning in an open letter about the potential existential threat posed by their AI developments, equating the risks to those of pandemics and nuclear weapons. Lower-risk concerns around the use of AI have been expressed by actors, writers, artists, and musicians, with regulations on AI use introduced in Hollywood.
Director Baz Luhrmann expressed a cautiously positive view of AI’s role in art but noted that “real creativity” comes from “the human part.” The WGA strike introduced regulations on AI use in Hollywood, ensuring it doesn’t affect writers’ credits or rights.