Opening article
The European Parliament has given final approval to the AI Act, the world’s first comprehensive AI law. The Act introduces a risk‑based classification, sets obligations for providers and users, and establishes testing environments for SMEs. It also requires transparency for generative AI and labeling of AI‑generated content. The law will be fully applicable 24 months after entry into force, with high‑risk systems having 36 months to comply.
The use of artificial intelligence in the EU is regulated by the AI Act, the world’s first comprehensive AI law. Find out how it protects you.
As part of its digital strategy , the EU wanted to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure better conditions for the development and use of this innovative technology. AI can create many benefits , such as better healthcare, safer and cleaner transport, more efficient manufacturing, and cheaper and more sustainable energy.
In April 2021, the European Commission proposed the first EU artificial intelligence law, establishing a risk-based AI classification system. AI systems that can be used in different applications are analysed and classified according to the risk they pose to users. The different risk levels mean more or less AI compliance requirements.
The law aims to support AI innovation and start-ups in Europe, allowing companies to develop and test general-purpose AI models before public release.
Parliament's priority was to make sure that AI systems used in the EU are safe, transparent, traceable, non-discriminatory and environmentally friendly. AI systems should be overseen by people, rather than by automation, to prevent harmful outcomes.
Parliament also wanted to establish a technology-neutral, uniform definition for AI that could be applied to future AI systems.
The new rules establish obligations for providers and users depending on the level of risk of AI risk qualification. While many AI systems pose minimal risk, they need to be assessed.
The AI Act sets global standards for AI safety, transparency, and innovation, influencing how companies develop, test, and market AI products in the EU and beyond.