EU calls on experts to contribute to shaping rules for general-purpose artificial intelligence systems
The European Union has initiated a consultation process to develop guidelines for the regulation of general-purpose AI models (GPAIs) under the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act). The consultation aims to gather input from various stakeholders, including GPAI providers, businesses, civil society representatives, rights holders, and academic experts.
Background
The EU AI Act was adopted earlier this year and is set to come into force on August 1. However, the implementation of compliance deadlines will be phased, with Codes of Practice due to apply after nine months (April 2025). This gives the bloc time to draw up guidance for GPAI providers.
What are General-Purpose AI Models?
GPAIs refer to AI models that can perform a wide range of tasks and have various applications. Examples of GPAI providers include Anthropic, Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI.
The Consultation Process
The consultation is divided into three sections:
- Transparency and Copyright-Related Provisions: This section covers the rules for transparency and copyright-related provisions for GPAIs.
- Risk Taxonomy, Assessment, and Mitigation: This section deals with the rules on risk taxonomy, assessment, and mitigation for GPAIs that are considered to have systemic risk (defined in the AI Act as models trained above a certain compute threshold).
- Reviewing and Monitoring of Codes of Practice: This section covers the reviewing and monitoring of Codes of Practice for GPAIs.
Initial Draft Code Development
The Commission will develop an initial draft Code based on submissions and answers to targeted questions from stakeholders.
Template for Summary of Model Training Content
GPAI providers will need to provide a summary of their model training content. The AI Office will provide a template for this summary, which will be developed based on the consultation responses.
Expression of Interest to Participate in Drawing Up the Code
The EU is also calling for expressions of interest from stakeholders who want to participate in drawing up the Code via virtual meetings divided into four working groups. An iterative drafting process will be used to develop the guidance.
Deadline and Submission Guidelines
The deadline for submitting responses to the consultation is September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. CET. Interested stakeholders can submit their responses through an online questionnaire.
Participation in Drawing Up the Code
GPAI providers will get the chance to attend workshops with the plenary meeting chairs and vice chairs. The AI Office will ensure transparency into these meetings by making them publicly available.
What’s Next?
The consultation process is an essential step in developing guidelines for GPAIs under the EU AI Act. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation and provide their input on the rules and regulations that govern GPAIs.
Related Topics
Related Resources
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the consultation process?
- The consultation aims to gather input from various stakeholders on the development of guidelines for GPAI providers under the EU AI Act.
- How can I participate in the consultation process?
- Stakeholders can submit their responses through an online questionnaire by September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. CET.
