Commission urges governments to appoint AI regulators
The European Commission is taking steps to implement the AI Act, a comprehensive framework designed to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) within the European Union. Roberto Viola, the Director General of the European Commission’s digital unit, announced that national governments would soon be asked to nominate their AI regulatory authorities. This move is part of the broader effort to ensure a harmonized approach to AI governance across the EU, with these national bodies forming the AI Board. The Board’s primary objective is to ensure consistent application of the AI Act across member states, a principle that echoes the Commission’s strategy in operationalizing the Digital Services Act.
As the AI Act gears up for enforcement, it categorizes AI systems based on risk, from low to high, setting the stage for a nuanced regulatory environment. The legislation, which was approved by lawmakers last month, is expected to be officially published in the EU’s Official Journal in June, marking its full entry into force. By the end of this year, the Act will begin to apply bans on certain prohibited AI practices, with general-purpose AI regulations activating in June 2025 and high-risk system obligations following three years thereafter.
In preparation for the Act’s implementation, the European Commission has initiated the recruitment process for both policy and technical positions within the AI Office, aiming to assemble a team of approximately 100 staff members. This recruitment drive underscores the Commission’s commitment to bolstering its capacity to oversee AI regulation effectively. The selection for the head of the AI Office will commence once the AI Act receives full legislative approval, highlighting the structured approach the Commission is taking towards establishing a robust regulatory framework for AI.
The AI Act represents a critical milestone in the EU’s digital regulation landscape, emphasizing a risk-based approach to AI governance. With member states on the clock to establish their national regulators within 12 months, the forthcoming AI Board will play a crucial role in ensuring a cohesive and effective regulatory regime across the European Union. This development signals a significant step towards managing the complexities and challenges posed by AI technologies, with the EU leading the charge in setting global standards for AI regulation.
Source: Commission presses governments to appoint AI regulators
