AI - The EU sets up an Artificial Intelligence control office.

Regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) is a priority in Europe. After months of negotiations, the foundational regulation on AI is expected to be formally adopted soon. In the wake of this, the European Commission is preparing to set up a new strategic entity: the European AI Office. This body will have the delicate mission of enforcing the new rules and overseeing the development of artificial intelligence across the continent.

The European Regulator for High-Risk AI Applications

While national authorities will be at the forefront of controlling most AI uses, the European Office will be entrusted with the supervision of the most sensitive and powerful applications. 

In particular, it will have to assess the actual capabilities of general-purpose AI models, like the famous conversational chatbots such as ChatGPT. The Office will analyze if they present systemic risks that require specific measures.

It will be empowered to investigate possible shortcomings by the developers of general-purpose artificial intelligence and can demand corrections if necessary. A decisive regulatory role on cutting-edge technologies.

A Hub for Technical Support and Coordination

But the Office will not just be a coercive body. It will also assume advisory functions, technical support, and coordination in the application of the AI regulation.

It will prepare the implementing texts, develop protocols and guidelines to assist the various stakeholders. The Office will also coordinate national authorities and facilitate the ethical adoption of AI tools within European policies.

Finally, it will actively promote innovation in AI among startups and the open-source community by disseminating best practices.

The Challenge of Budgetary and Political Independence

The question of resources allocated to the Office will be critical. Attached to the digital directorate within the Commission, it is at risk of lacking political and budgetary autonomy.

Yet, this autonomy is a necessary condition to successfully carry out its complex mission of regulating AI, which requires independence and strong legitimacy. The MEPs will therefore follow closely the funding and powers conferred to the Office.

Its capacity to recruit experts and seize emerging opportunities will depend on budgetary decisions. The effectiveness of the Office will condition that of the AI regulation as a whole.

With the accelerated creation of this Office, the EU is gradually building its institutional architecture to regulate and stimulate AI ethically. The proper articulation of the Office with other entities will be decisive in making the AI regulation a success. And, to reposition Europe at the forefront of governing future technologies.