EU establishes European AI Office

On February 21 the European Union (EU) has opened the European AI Office. The establishment of the European AI Office within the European Commission marks a significant stride towards centralizing artificial intelligence (AI) expertise across the EU.

Tasked the enforcement of the AI Act, particularly concerning general-purpose AI models, this office is set to be the cornerstone of a unified European AI governance framework. Its responsibilities extend beyond mere enforcement; it aims to nurture the development and application of trustworthy AI, safeguarding against potential AI risks while ensuring the technology’s benefits are fully leveraged for societal and economic growth.

Under the AI Act the EU seeks to guarantee the safety, reliability, and adherence to fundamental rights concerning AI technologies. The European AI Office is aimed to support this endeavor by aiding Member States’ governance bodies, enforcing regulations on general-purpose AI models, and facilitating international cooperation on AI standards.

The European AI Office functions include:

1. Supporting the Implementation of the AI Act: It assists in the uniform application of the AI Act across EU Member States, helps set up advisory bodies, and facilitates information exchange.
2. Enforcing General-Purpose AI Rules: It develops evaluation tools and methodologies for AI models, classifies models with systemic risks, and investigates rule infringements, requesting corrective actions from providers.
3. Strengthening Trustworthy AI Development: It promotes the societal and economic benefits of AI, advises on best practices, supports access to AI sandboxes and testing environments, and encourages innovation in the AI sector.
4. Fostering International Cooperation on AI: It advocates for the EU’s approach to AI globally, supports international governance and cooperation on AI, and aids in developing and implementing international agreements.
5. Monitoring and Analysis: The office continuously monitors the AI ecosystem for technological advancements, market developments, systemic risks, and other relevant trends.
6. Collaboration with Stakeholders: It works closely with institutions, experts, and stakeholders through advisory forums, expert groups, and partnerships to gather insights and expertise from various sectors.