The EU AI Act is approaching its final stages, but key legislators are emphasizing that the true challenge lies in its implementation as member states begin to put it into action. At the World AI Cannes Festival, Dragoș Tudorache, a Romanian MEP and one of the Act’s co-rapporteurs, highlighted the importance of ensuring that member nations grasp "the setup, mindset, and spirit" behind the regulation.
In the lead-up to a crucial vote earlier this month, some countries expressed concerns regarding the Act's implications. However, a unanimous agreement was ultimately reached among member states. Tudorache expressed his satisfaction with this consensus and confirmed that the Act is now set for final scrutiny by committees, with voting expected to take place in March or April, contingent on the availability of translations.
**Striking a Balance Between Benefits and Protection**
Since its introduction in 2021, the AI Act has sparked significant debate and negotiation. In July, over 150 prominent European companies signed an open letter to the EU expressing "serious concerns" that the Act could undermine Europe’s competitiveness and technological sovereignty without effectively addressing future challenges.
Speakers at the Cannes Festival resonated with these concerns, suggesting that the legislation might inhibit innovation. However, Tudorache countered this notion, stating that “there is no tension between protection and innovation.” He emphasized that the design of the Act intentionally strives to balance these two objectives. "It’s not a zero-sum game. In fact, both can coexist without conflict," he asserted.
Tudorache underscored the importance of robust safeguards to protect individual and business rights, while also arguing that the Act ultimately benefits businesses by fostering public trust. “Businesses require the confidence of citizens to drive transformation,” he added.
He also noted that specific provisions are in place to support open-source development and to create allowances for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). “We ensured that the Act does not hinder business; rather, it establishes the right environment for growth and creativity,” he remarked, expressing conviction in the carefully crafted balance within the legislation.
**Future Legislation for Quantum Computing?**
When asked about the possibility of a similar legislative framework emerging for quantum computing, Tudorache was circumspect. “Maybe, but I dare say—not yet,” he responded.
He explained that quantum technology could serve as a foundation for even more advanced AI systems. "What has long been missing in AI's development has been the computing power that has evolved to this stage," he said, pointing to the significance of foundational models.
Tudorache noted that as computing capabilities grow, the AI Act must adapt accordingly, especially concerning foundational models. "Should quantum computing introduce new elements beyond current predictions, that may change the conversation," he acknowledged. Nonetheless, he reassured that adapting the AI Act to incorporate emerging technologies is already a consideration within the legislative framework.
This commitment to flexibility is crucial as the landscape of technology continues to evolve, ensuring that regulation remains relevant and responsive to future advancements.
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