EU Council: What is the EU’s approach to AI?

Artificial intelligence (AI) will undoubtedly change our world – but what do we, as citizens, really think about it? On 24 February, the Belgian presidency will bring together a cross-section of society to discuss how the EU can deal with AI in the future. An overview of the current European strategy is therefore essential.

European AI strategy

To become one of the world’s leaders in both development and legal protection, the EU has prepared a proposal for regulation. This is currently in its final stages and should come into force in 2026. The aim is to create both excellence and confidence through solid regulations and concrete actions.

The regulation addresses both the opportunities and risks. These range from minimal to unacceptable risks, such as emotion recognition in the workplace or behavioural manipulation. Depending on the risk level, different rules apply. At the same time, there are plans for investments and innovations to further support AI developments in the EU. One example of such an investment is additional support for AI start-ups. This keeps the European economy competitive, and allows us to focus on strategic leadership in this sector.

The AI risk pyramid shows the four levels of risk with their corresponding measures. The higher the risk of an AI application, the stricter the measure. As such, there are no obligations for AI with minimal or no risks, but bans are imposed for AI applications with unacceptable risks that cause harm and pose a safety risk.

If you want to read more about AI or exchange information with other interested parties, be sure to check out the European AI Alliance. In this community, various parties come together to share knowledge about AI. The declaration on digital rights and principles also gives you a better idea of how the EU wants to shape the digital future.

Promoting development

How will we move forward with AI? The EU sees sustainable opportunities to make our continent a hub for this new technology. To this end, it has drawn up a plan, which in the coming period consists of the following parts:

1. Creating a conducive environment for developing and applying AI;
2. Ensuring that developed AI can trickle down to the (global) market;
3. Engaging and protecting citizens by encouraging the enhancement of digital skills , among other things;
4. Building strategic leadership in high-impact sectors such as robotics and the environment;
5. Establishing programmes to support this progress, including through Digital Europe and Horizon Europe

AI Act

There are also many legal implications for the future of artificial intelligence in Europe. The goal is to protect civil rights, among other things, while creating an environment in which AI can grow and prosper.

Protecting the rights of European citizens in the digital environment has long been on the European Union’s agenda. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) ensures that not all of your personal data can be used or processed by third parties. The Digital Services Act focuses on creating a safer online environment for digital users and companies, including through rules to tackle illegal practices and online deception.

Furthermore, a European directive is being developed for victims of damage caused by digital and AI products. And laws around machinery and product safety are also being adapted to the AI era.