From better health care to safer transport and more sustainable farming, artificial intelligence (AI) can bring major benefits to society and the economy. Yet, questions related to the impact of AI on the future of work and existing legislation are raised. According to the European Commission (EC), this calls for a wide, open, and inclusive discussion on how to use and develop AI both successfully and ethically sound.

EC Vice President for the Digital Single Market Andrus Ansip says, “Step by step, we are setting up the right environment for Europe to make the most of what artificial intelligence can offer. Data, supercomputers, and bold investment are essential for developing artificial intelligence, along with a broad public discussion combined with the respect of ethical principles for its take-up.”

The expert group in AI, to be set up in May, will be tasked to advise the EC on how to build a broad and diverse community of stakeholders in a “European AI Alliance” and to draft guidelines for the ethical development and use of AI. In doing so, it will consider issues such as fairness, safety, transparency, and the future of work.

The EC has already taken action to make optimal use of what AI can offer, with investments in research and innovation in the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme, including a call for an AI-on-demand platform that will gather tools and algorithms for users.