The exploratory opinion requested by the Commission will focus on General Purpose AI models and the systems based on these models, their use by institutions, bodies and businesses and the impact they have on economy and society. Its aim is to support the implementation of the Artificial Intelligence Act, in particular as regards General Purpose AI and their governance. It will, more specifically, contribute to the preparation of the codes of practice in relation to General Purpose AI, provide recommendations on the next steps in the field and engage in the global discussions around General Purpose AI and their governance.
Adopted on 25/01/2023 - Bureau decision date: 20/09/2022
The purpose of the AI Liability Directive is to lay down uniform rules for access to information and alleviation of the burden of proof in relation to damages caused by AI systems, establishing broader protection for victims (be it individuals or businesses), and fostering the AI sector by increasing guarantees. It will harmonise certain rules for claims outside of the scope of the Product Liability Directive, in cases in which damage is caused due to wrongful behaviour.
Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) face challenges in the area of digitalisation and access to artificial intelligence, but this segment can take great advantage of the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence.
The main objective of the opinion is to propose concrete measures which can be easily implemented in order to avoid MSMEs being “left behind” from the transition to artificial intelligence. The main issues to be addressed are: the use of new technologies to offer innovative products and services and strengthen Europe’s capacity to invest in disruptive innovations; create closer links in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) between universities and public administration, on the one hand, and businesses, in particular SMEs and micro-enterprises, on the other; support the MSMEs in recruiting and ensuring skills development for their employees to cope with the technological changes brought about by AI; facilitate the access to EU funding.
EESC opinion: Developing Artificial Intelligence in European micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)
The EESC is pleased that the proposal puts health, safety and fundamental rights at its centre and is global in scope. In line with its long advocated "human-in-command" approach to AI, the EESC strongly recommends that the AIA provide for certain decisions to remain the prerogative of humans.
EESC opinion: Regulation on artificial intelligence
The Slovenian presidency of the Council of the EU has decided to request an EESC opinion on one of its priority topics linked to digitalisation. Artificial intelligence is regarded as the most important aspect in digitalisation. Particularly important are also the integration of advanced technologies into society and transition to a gigabit society. With the emerging technologies such as the AI and the data economy, the EU can recover rapidly and become the world’s leading digital society.
The EESC opinion should cover the following topics:
EESC opinion: Exploiting the economic and social opportunities of digitalisation and improving the digital transformation of the economy, especially the SMEs, focusing on human-centered artificial intelligence and data
The proposed European Metrology Partnership will build on the European metrology research programme (EMRP) and the European metrology programme on innovation and research (EMPIR). Metrology being the scientific study of measurement, it is a key enabler of economic and social activity. To maintain its competitive leadership in emerging technologies and new product development, by 2030 Europe's metrology solutions need to be at least equal to the top global performers.
EESC opinion: Participation of the Union in the European Partnership on Metrology
