As the field of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to expand and evolve, policymakers are grappling with how to regulate these technologies in a way that protects individuals' rights and safety. The European Union (EU) is at the forefront of these efforts, with the recent announcement of strict new rules that will apply to a range of AI systems, including ChatGPT, the chat robot that has been making headlines in recent months.
The EU's proposed regulations for AI use a risk-based approach, with systems classified into four groups: unacceptable risk, high risk, limited risk, and minimum risk. The most stringent rules will apply to systems that fall into the unacceptable and high-risk categories, which include critical infrastructure, surgery, immigration, and border management, among others. These systems must meet strict requirements before they are released to the market, and fines of up to €30 million or 6% of global profits may be imposed on violators.
One of the most notable aspects of the EU's proposed regulations is the inclusion of chatbots in the limited risk group. While chatbots may not pose as significant a risk to individuals' safety and rights as other AI systems, they do have the potential to manipulate human behavior and deceive users. As such, the EU is requiring that chatbots be transparent about their AI status, so that users are aware that they are interacting with a computer and not a human being.
This emphasis on transparency and accountability is a key feature of the EU's approach to regulating AI. As the use of AI becomes more widespread in industries such as finance, healthcare, and transportation, it is essential that these systems are designed and deployed in a way that is ethical and responsible. This includes ensuring that AI systems are non-discriminatory, subject to human oversight, and that their results are observable and explainable.
While the EU's proposed regulations are still in the process of being approved by member states and the European Parliament, they represent an important step forward in the development of responsible AI governance. By setting clear standards for the design and deployment of AI systems, the EU is sending a message to tech companies and policymakers around the world that the responsible use of AI is a top priority. As AI continues to transform our world, it is essential that we remain vigilant in our efforts to ensure that these technologies are harnessed for the public good.