Artificial intelligence is the technology of the future. But there are also dangers behind it. Now there are stricter rules for use in the EU.
The EU law on artificial intelligence (AI) is set to clear the final hurdle today. The rules that, among other things, completely ban certain AI applications are now to be adopted at a Council of Ministers in Brussels.
No “social scoring” like in China
The law aims to make the use of AI safer in the European Union. It is intended to ensure that AI systems are as transparent, comprehensible, non-discriminatory and environmentally friendly as possible. An important aspect is that the AI systems are monitored by people and not just by other technologies.
The plans go back to a proposal from the EU Commission in 2021. Systems that are considered particularly risky and are used, for example, in critical infrastructure or in education and healthcare, will therefore have to meet strict requirements in the future.
Certain AI applications that violate EU values should be banned entirely. This includes, for example, the evaluation of social behavior (“social scoring”). This divides citizens in China into behavioral categories. There should also be no emotion recognition in the workplace or in educational institutions in the EU.
Providers and operators are particularly affected
Facial recognition in public spaces – for example through video surveillance in public places – should generally not be permitted. However, there are exceptions: Police and other security authorities should be allowed to use such facial recognition in public spaces to prosecute very specific crimes such as human trafficking or terrorism.
The law applies to everyone who develops, offers or uses AI systems within the EU. This affects public and private actors both inside and outside the EU.
Violations result in fines
If companies do not comply with the rules, member states must decide on sanctions. These can include fines. Private individuals who discover violations of the rules can complain to national authorities. They can then initiate monitoring procedures and, if necessary, impose penalties.
Source: Stern
