Europe’s digital dilemma: choosing between innovation or stricter regulations?

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is forcing the European Union to introduce regulations that mitigate risks while guiding innovation. The AI Act sets rules that apply across all member states, aiming to ban harmful AI applications, prevent algorithmic discrimination, and oversee large-scale AI models like ChatGPT. However, Daniel Mügge, Professor of Political Arithmetic at the University of Amsterdam, argues that this legislation falls short in addressing broader societal consequences, such as disinformation and the impact on democracy and education.

He also examines the influence of Donald Trump’s re-election on European AI policy. Major US tech firms like Meta and Google have close ties to the new American administration and are actively working to avoid stricter regulations. "Trump prioritizes economic growth and profit maximization over regulation," says Mügge. This could clash with Europe’s approach, which places greater emphasis on ethical and social considerations.

According to Mügge, Europe’s strength lies in its regulatory capabilities, but the EU remains dependent on technology from the United States and China. He advocates for strengthening Europe’s own technology sector to achieve digital sovereignty. "To maintain control over its digital future, Europe must invest in its own infrastructure and innovations rather than focusing solely on regulation."

Read the full article on the website of the UvA.