On 13 June 2024, the European Parliament and Council approved the Artificial Intelligence Act, with the aim of improving the functioning of the internal market through the establishment of a uniform legal framework, particularly as regards the development, introduction onto the market, entry into operation and use of artificial intelligence systems within the European Union. The aim of the Act is to promote the adoption of a reliable artificial intelligence (AI) with a human focus, while at the same time ensuring high levels of protection in terms of health, safety and fundamental rights, and providing support for innovation.
The Act came into force on 1 August 2024, and it will apply from 2 August 2026 (though with exceptions that will gradually be applied both before and after that date).
Among the Act’s provisions, the following are particularly noteworthy:
- The use of AI in certain ways is prohibited on the grounds that it involves unacceptable risk.
- Certain AI systems are classified as high risk and robust requirements are established for these systems, along with obligations for those participating in the value chain, including companies that use AI systems.
- The introduction onto the market of AI models intended for general use is regulated.
- Obligations with regard to transparency are imposed on the use of certain AI systems, particularly those that are designed to interact with people and those that generate content.
- An institutional system of governance and oversight is established, along with heavy penalties for any infringement of the Act.
Finally, although it is true that, with some exceptions, the Act will apply from 2 August 2026, the European Commission has launched the AI PACT project. The main aim of this project is to seek a voluntary undertaking from the sector in anticipation of the AI Act’s introduction and commence application of its requirements before the date on which it legally comes into force.