US Pressure Complicates AI Regulation Efforts in Europe
In the wake of the world’s first comprehensive AI legislation entering into force just six months ago, global discussions surrounding the regulation of artificial intelligence have intensified. A significant gathering took place in Paris, with heads of state, CEOs from major tech companies, and senior government officials all converging to address the challenges and opportunities in the evolving AI landscape.
AI Action Summit Highlights
During the AI Action Summit, US Vice President JD Vance emphasized the new administration’s focus on AI opportunities rather than regulation. He cautioned that excessive regulation could stifle the industry just as it begins to thrive. This stance reflects the wider concern that US pressure may complicate Europe’s regulatory framework.
Voluntary Code of Practice
Central to the new legislation is a voluntary code of practice aimed at general-purpose AI models. This code is being developed by independent experts and draws upon input from various stakeholders, including industry representatives and civil society. The code seeks to outline how AI providers should assess and mitigate systemic risks associated with AI technologies.
However, the finalization of this code has become a slow and contentious process, caught in a tug-of-war between regulatory needs and industry demands.
The Impact of US Pressure
European officials have expressed concerns that US influence and the recent calls for a “stop-the-clock” pause on parts of the AI Act implementation could hinder progress. Some member states fear that the EU may be moving too quickly, potentially triggering trade disputes that could destabilize the region’s economy.
Simultaneously, Europe’s creative sectors—encompassing artists, musicians, writers, and journalists—feel increasingly neglected. These creators are witnessing their works being used to train generative AI systems without consent, credit, or compensation, raising significant ethical and legal questions.
Copyright and AI
The European Commission has stated that it is bound by existing copyright law, asserting that the AI Act cannot exceed the EU copyright directive. This directive allows for the use of copyrighted works for scientific research without permission from copyright holders. However, many creators argue that the directive did not anticipate the rise of AI and its implications.
With the potential for legislative changes receding, it appears that courts will play a vital role in determining whether AI companies can legally train models on copyrighted material without permission. This legal landscape is further complicated by ongoing litigation in the US, including high-profile cases against major AI firms.
Implications for the Media Sector
The stakes for the media sector extend beyond economic concerns; they also encompass democratic implications. AI-generated content that lacks proper attribution threatens the revenue streams of news publishers, undermining media pluralism essential for a functioning democracy.
According to the Reuters Institute’s annual Digital News Report, a growing number of individuals, particularly those under 25, are using AI chatbots to access news, raising alarms about the future of journalistic integrity and revenue generation.
The Need for Balanced Regulation
The courage demonstrated by the European Parliament in proposing regulation to manage AI risks is commendable. However, the legislation must clearly define how to balance the development of European AI—which reflects European values and culture—with the need to protect the creative and media industries.
The intended code of practice was expected to provide guidance, yet it risks becoming a fragile compromise between the pressures from the tech industry and the demands of rights holders.
Conclusion
As the European Parliament navigates the complex landscape of AI regulation, the urgency for effective legislative action is palpable. Copyright is not merely a technical matter; it is fundamental to Europe’s cultural sovereignty and democratic integrity in the new AI era.
