A bill regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has been approved by representatives of the European Parliament, the European Commission, and EU member states. This legislation emerges as the strictest in the world, intending to impose a restrictive regime on the development of this technology.
EU Commissioner Thierry Breton referred to the agreement as historic, emphasizing that the EU is becoming the first continent with clear rules for AI usage. The AI law is seen not only as a set of rules but also as a launching pad for startups and researchers in the EU, enabling them to lead in the global AI race.
According to the agreement, a two-tiered approach to AI regulation has been introduced. It includes transparency requirements for all general-purpose AI models and stricter requirements for powerful models with systemic impact across the EU.
However, to avoid an “excessive burden” on companies, the rules will incorporate guarantees for the use of AI technology. The agreement also includes restrictions on the use of facial recognition technology, granting this right only to law enforcement agencies in narrowly defined cases.
The legislation also mandates a ban on using AI for “social scoring” and manipulating people’s behavior against their will. It is also prohibited to use AI to exploit vulnerable groups.
Companies failing to comply with the rules face fines of €35 million or 7% of their total revenue. However, some technological groups have expressed concerns, arguing that such rules may hinder innovation and impact the industry’s development.