High-Level AI Board Meeting Sets Stage for AI Act

The first high-level meeting of the upcoming AI Board was held on June 19 at the Commission’s Borschette building. Although the AI Act is still awaiting formal entry into force, expected in early August, the meeting aimed to lay the groundwork for its implementation.

The agenda included discussions on the strategic vision for the AI Act, national approaches to governance and supervision, and initial deliverables and priorities for the AI Act’s implementation by the European Commission.

Key topics addressed were the organization of the AI Board, including its mandate, the selection process for a Chair, decision-making procedures, and the creation of sub-groups. High-level delegates from all EU Member States attended, alongside representatives from the European Commission, including Director-General Roberto Viola and Director of the AI Office Lucilla Sioli. The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) participated in an observer role, and representatives from EEA/EFTA members—Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland—were also present as observers.

The timing of the meeting reflects the Commission and Member States’ commitment to ensuring a robust and timely setup for the AI governance framework. This framework aims to facilitate effective participation of Member States and ensure the smooth implementation of the AI Act from its inception. The next meeting is scheduled for early Autumn, following the AI Act’s entry into force.

For further details, interested parties can visit the European AI Office webpage.