The EU AI Act, a pioneering directive, is set to regulate artificial intelligence within the European Union. It not only addresses the risks of AI but also positions Europe as a global leader in AI regulation. Published on 12 July 2024, it establishes a comprehensive legal framework to ensure AI systems are safe, respect fundamental rights, and foster innovation by introducing strict rules on deploying and using AI solutions. The Act takes effect on 1 August 2024, with most provisions enforceable starting in August 2026 across all 27 EU Member States.
Overview of the EU ACT
The EU AI Act is the outcome of extensive negotiations intended to establish a harmonised legal framework governing the development, placement on the market, deployment, and usage of artificial intelligence systems within the EU. This Act ensures trust in AI by providing AI developers and deployers with precise requirements and obligations regarding specific uses of AI. While most AI systems pose minimal risk and can address societal challenges, some require careful management to prevent undesirable outcomes. Although existing legislation offers protection, more is needed to address AI's unique challenges.
The Act categorises AI systems based on their potential risk levels: unacceptable, high, and limited or minimal risk. Each category has distinct requirements and obligations.
Unacceptable Risk AI Systems: These are prohibited due to their threat to safety, livelihoods, and rights. Examples include AI systems that manipulate human behaviour or are used for social scoring.
High-Risk AI Systems: Subject to strict obligations like risk management, data governance, and transparency. This category includes AI in critical infrastructure, education, employment, and law enforcement.
Limited or Minimal Risk AI Systems: These are required to adhere to transparency obligations, such as informing users that they are interacting with an AI system.
Key Steps for Compliance
Complying with the EU AI Act involves several critical steps. Organisations must thoroughly assess their AI systems and implement necessary changes to meet regulatory requirements.
Evaluate AI Systems
Begin by categorising the AI systems according to the risk levels defined by the Act system to identify whether they fall into prohibited or high-risk categories, with a focus on systems used for customer interactions.
Adopt Compliance Measures
Address any AI systems that do not meet compliance standards by either discontinuing or modifying them. Set up policies for continuous monitoring and evaluation to maintain compliance.
Transparency and Accountability
Implement measures to maintain detailed records of AI systems to enhance transparency. This includes documentation that explains how the AI system functions, its purposes, and its limitations. Additionally, accountability frameworks must be established to oversee AI operations and compliance.
Education and Awareness
Educate employees on the relevant regulations and the significance of compliance. Offer comprehensive training on recognising and mitigating AI risks.
Continuous Monitoring and Reporting
Develop systems for ongoing monitoring of AI systems, including regular audits, performance evaluations, and reporting mechanisms to track and document AI operations and their outcomes. Be prepared to supply this documentation to regulatory bodies when required.
How can CloudSource help?
CloudSource strongly advocates the EU AI Act and is dedicated to supporting organisations in their journey towards responsible AI deployment. We believe these guiding principles could provide the cornerstones for non-EU organisations to form their strategy. As the regulatory landscape for AI evolves, it is crucial for all organisations to develop and maintain a robust AI strategy to stay ahead of compliance requirements and foster ethical AI practices.
The CloudSource AI Ignite Catalyst Programme enables organisations to kickstart their AI journey and ensure safe, ethical AI development and deployment to stay ahead of the curve and comply with these fast-changing laws.
By combining Microsoft's top-tier Cloud Technology with CloudSource's deep-seated expertise in digital transformation and public sector leadership, we empower organisations with responsible AI for digitised and future-proofed services.
If you want to discuss how we can assist you on your responsible AI journey or learn more about our AI Ignite Catalyst Programme, please email us or submit an inquiry via our contact page.
Email: ozlem.kilavuz@cloudsource.uk.com Teams: +44 (0)1156 782 043
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