CDT Europe, in collaboration with the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), European Digital Rights (EDRi), and the European Centre for Not-for-Profit Law (ECNL), has co-drafted a letter signed by 52 civil society organizations, experts, and academics. The letter addresses concerns regarding the proposed simplification of the AI Act within the upcoming digital omnibus proposal.
The signatories urge the Commission not to reopen the AI Act, which could undermine fundamental rights protections within EU digital law. They also express concern over calls to suspend or delay the AI Act's implementation and enforcement.
The letter highlights challenges in implementing the AI Act, such as standardization processes, the GPAI Code of Practice, and delays in establishing governance bodies like the Advisory Forum. It urges prioritizing full implementation and proper enforcement rather than reopening or delaying its application.
Laura Lazaro Cabrera from CDT Europe stated: "Simplification cannot become a cover for deregulation. The AI Act is a cornerstone of Europe’s ambition to champion a people-first, rights-abiding AI."
Blue Duangdjai Tiyavorabun from EDRi commented: "It is deeply concerning that instead of focusing on improving...the Commission focuses on delays, deregulation."
Cláudio Teixeira from BEUC remarked: "Backtracking on the AI Act would send the wrong message to consumers...undermine democratic processes."
Karolina Iwanska from ECNL noted: "The AI Act focuses on truly 'high-risk' AI...any attempts to undermine...will inevitably harm people’s fundamental rights."