Enabling Europe’s AI Ambitions
Overview
Ursula von der Leyen’s first presidential term at the European Commission delivered the Artificial Intelligence Act, the world’s first binding rulebook for AI. The EU legislation is designed to promote trustworthy AI that protects citizens’ rights while fostering innovation. But passing the AI Act was just the first step. Its implementation will greatly affect the impact AI can have on the bloc's competitiveness and striking a balance with its calls for technological sovereignty. And with a slowing EU economy, keeping pace with the U.S. and China on innovation and growth is one of von der Leyen's top priorities for her second term in office.
Over the next five years, the challenge for Europe will be to enforce the AI act while providing fertile ground for innovation. The new Commission’s tech chief, Henna Virkkunen, is calling for an approach that makes the AI Act an “enabler” of the technology. She is determined to make Europe the best place in the world to develop trustworthy AI. What are the necessary steps in this direction? How can Europe balance its ambitions around digital sovereignty with the goal of growing its tech sector and digital infrastructure? Will the bloc be able to sharpen its AI capabilities and infrastructure while honouring its climate commitments? What can be done to mitigate evolving cyber threats? What policies and reforms are needed to compete on the global scale? How can Europe safeguard workers and support the upskilling for the digital age? What should governments do to embrace AI and make sure it benefits all businesses and citizens?
This full-day event, hosted by the Financial Times in partnership with Google, brought together leading figures from across European institutions, industries, start-ups, NGOs, academics, trade associations and think tanks. The event defined how Europe would wield its rules to harness AI’s potential, while protecting businesses and citizens from its risk.
World-Class Leaders and Speakers
Key Discussion Points
Fostering Innovation and Competitiveness
Leverage the AI Act as an enabler of innovation while ensuring technological sovereignty. Promote global collaboration, trusted data flows, and a pro-innovation regulatory framework to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness in AI.
Building Infrastructure and Mitigating Risks
Invest in AI infrastructure aligned with decarbonization goals. Address cybersecurity threats, misinformation, and data governance challenges while advancing AI capabilities for societal and industrial growth.
Empowering Workforce and Society
Prepare a skilled AI-powered workforce through digital transformation. Ensure equitable AI adoption for SMEs, start-ups, and citizens. Promote policies to democratize AI’s benefits for public services and inclusive societal progress.
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