Vigenin: Europe is setting clear rules for artificial intelligence, protection for citizens and security for business

“We are taking an important step towards clearer, more workable and more effective rules for artificial intelligence in Europe. We are striking a balance between encouraging innovation and protecting citizens.” This was stated by Bulgarian MEP Kristian Vigenin from the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats after the European Parliament adopted a position on the so-called Digital Omnibus in the part on artificial intelligence, which is an important step towards simplifying the rules in the Artificial Intelligence Act. The Bulgarian MEP is the rapporteur on the topic for the Group of Socialists and Democrats.

“With this decision we guarantee more transparency for content generated by artificial intelligence, we introduce clear rules for high-risk systems and we limit practices that can threaten fundamental rights,” Vigenin stressed.

One of the important measures is the ban on so-called “nudifier” systems. “We cannot allow technologies that create fake intimate content without people’s consent. That is a direct attack on human dignity and private life,” the MEP emphasised.

In his words, it is particularly important that the new rules create a stable and predictable environment for business. “European companies need clear and workable rules so that they can develop and be competitive globally,” he argued.

The negotiations between the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission began immediately after the vote. “The trilogue is the decisive stage, in which we have to achieve balanced and workable legislation. Our ambition is to finish by the end of April, in order to provide predictability for business and timely protection for citizens,” Vigenin explained.

In his view Europe has the opportunity to set a global standard in the regulation of artificial intelligence. “We have to show that we can protect people’s rights and create conditions for technological development at the same time. That is the European model,” he concluded.