The European Commission is currently navigating a complex landscape regarding the implementation of the AI Act. Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen has not dismissed the possibility of delaying certain parts of the AI Act if standards and guidelines are not issued in time. This potential delay has sparked criticism from fundamental rights advocates, although some member states support these "stop-the-clock" delays. The Polish Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs suggested that technical standards for high-risk AI systems and codes of practice should be established before legal requirements come into effect.
In parallel, efforts to simplify EU tech laws are advancing. The outgoing Polish Presidency summarized its work on simplification, highlighting challenges such as regulatory overlaps within the EU's digital rulebook. Specific difficulties with the AI Act include interpreting its risk-based approach and aligning it with sectoral legislation and standards.
The European Commission has also opened a call for experts to join a scientific panel supporting enforcement of the AI Act, particularly concerning General-Purpose AI models. Sixty experts are sought to evaluate various aspects including GPAI model capabilities and systemic risks related to misuse and cybersecurity.
A public consultation by the Commission is underway until July 18 on implementing rules for high-risk AI systems under the AI Act. Stakeholders have been invited to provide examples and input on classification, obligations, and roles along the value chain.
Additionally, a report from the European Commission highlights gaps in achieving EU's 2030 digital objectives despite some progress in areas like public service digitalization. The report emphasizes reliance on non-EU providers for semiconductors and cloud services while calling for stronger investment in connectivity, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.
The upcoming Danish EU Council Presidency will focus on security, competitiveness, and green transition while aiming to strengthen EU leadership in technologies like artificial intelligence.
In other developments related to AI in Europe:
- The European Commission urged member states to enforce all violations under the AI Act.
- Experts including Nobel Laureates called for third-party testing mechanisms within the EU Code of Practice for general-purpose AI models.
- France’s CNIL adopted recommendations regarding GDPR's interplay with developing AI models.
- Italy’s Competition Authority launched an investigation against DeepSeek over alleged unfair practices.
- Privacy NGO noyb filed complaints about Bumble’s use of AI-generated messages without transparency or valid legal basis.
- A draft report from the Committee on Employment calls for new directives addressing algorithmic management at workplaces.
Finally, Nordic-Baltic countries announced funding for a new regional center focused on accelerating AI adoption across their region starting fall 2025.