Policymakers in Europe are focusing on artificial intelligence, with CDT Europe providing updates through their monthly AI Bulletin. The bulletin covers laws and policies related to AI and their implications for Europe.
The third draft of the General-Purpose AI (GPAI) Code of Practice was published on March 11. This version is divided into four parts: commitments, transparency, copyright, and safety and security. Significant changes were made to the section addressing risk assessment obligations. The list of mandatory risks to assess now excludes discrimination, which has been moved to an optional list alongside privacy harms and other fundamental rights risks. "As we addressed in fuller comments to the draft," said CDT Europe, "the explanations given – that fundamental rights risks don’t arise from high-impact capabilities, and that the EU digital rulebook better accounts for these risks – do not stand up to scrutiny."
This draft will undergo one final review before being presented by May 2. The European Commission will decide whether to approve it or provide common rules for GPAI model providers by August 2.
In Spain, a bill implementing the AI Act at the national level has been approved. It sets conditions under which remote biometric identification may be used for law enforcement purposes. The Spanish bill authorizes RBI use only for locating individuals suspected of committing serious criminal offenses.
Italy's Senate approved a draft law setting general conditions for AI use in critical sectors. Minors below 14 years old may access AI systems only with parental consent. Key areas like healthcare could benefit from AI while emphasizing safeguards such as creating an AI Observatory within the Ministry of Labor.
A joint white paper by the European Commission identified AI as a priority in defense strategy, highlighting opportunities in AI-powered robots. A strategic dialogue with the defense industry is planned ahead of presenting a Defense Omnibus Simplification proposal by June 2025.
Other news includes a complaint filed against OpenAI by digital rights NGO noyb after ChatGPT inaccurately responded about a Norwegian user’s name. Additionally, Hungary proposed an amendment allowing facial recognition at Pride events, likely precluded by existing laws.
CDT Europe's bulletin also features recommended reads on various topics related to AI policy and practice.