The European Council has recently approved the AI Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation that aims to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) use within the EU. However, critics have raised concerns that the law could potentially legalize biometric mass surveillance, posing serious threats to privacy and civil liberties.
The AI Act takes a risk-based approach, allowing EU authorities to assess the level of risk AI poses to society and impose corresponding rules and penalties on companies. Certain AI applications, such as cognitive behavioral manipulation, are deemed unacceptable, while others like facial recognition are classified as high-risk. Developers will be required to register their apps for assessment before making them available to EU users.
Despite exemptions for military and defense purposes, as well as research, some fear that the AI Act could legitimize real-time biometric mass surveillance in public places, leading to potential errors and severe consequences. While regulating AI is crucial, protecting democracy from excessive surveillance must remain a top priority.
The European Parliament’s approval of the AI Act earlier this year faced criticism for its lack of transparency in negotiations, with concerns raised about the potential consequences of legalizing certain AI technologies. As the legislation comes into effect across the EU, it remains to be seen how it will impact the development and use of AI systems in both public and private sectors.
Overall, while the AI Act aims to promote safe and trustworthy AI, questions remain about its potential implications for privacy, surveillance, and civil liberties within the EU. Balancing AI regulation with the protection of democratic values and individual rights will be crucial in the coming years.
