Mark Kelly
Founder, AI Ireland
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly woven into our daily lives, it’s crucial to strike a balance between innovation and responsible use. The EU AI Act aims to do just that.
The EU AI Act is a comprehensive set of rules designed to govern AI development and deployment within the European Union (EU).
Key points of the EU AI Act
1. The Act categorises AI systems based on risk level
- Unacceptable risk: Some AI applications pose unacceptable risks to safety, health or rights. These are outright prohibited.
- High risk: Certain AI systems (like medical diagnosis tools or self-driving cars) fall into this category. Developers and users must meet specific obligations.
- Low risk: Everyday AI applications with minimal risk.
2. Privacy by design
- The Act emphasises ‘privacy by design.’ This means AI systems should prioritise user privacy from the start.
3. Human-centric approach
- AI should benefit people. The Act encourages a human-centric approach, focusing on wellbeing and rights.
4. Implementation and scope
- The Act takes effect 20 days after publication.
- It applies to any company operating within the EU or whose AI impacts the EU, regardless of location.
5. Businesses and employees
- Companies using AI must follow the Act.
- Employees should adhere to AI policies to prevent unauthorised data sharing.
6. Remaining vigilant
- AI evolves rapidly. Staying informed about regulations is crucial.
Awareness and understanding of AI are essential
as we navigate this transformative journey.
The challenge of enforcing the EU AI Act
The rapid pace of AI development poses a significant challenge for regulation to keep pace. As the EU AI Act takes effect, businesses across the EU will grapple with enforcing its provisions. However, one certainty remains: awareness and understanding of AI are essential as we navigate this transformative journey. AI is here to stay, shaping our future in profound ways.
Upholding standards for responsible AI use
The EU AI Act sets a global standard for responsible AI. As we embrace this technology, let’s ensure it serves us all while respecting our rights and safety.
If you are interested in finding out more about how the EU AI Act will impact you and your business, get in touch with AI Ireland.
