Artificial intelligence will be regulated differently in Northern Ireland and Britain as a new EU law takes effect next month, creating a digital border that may impact local businesses. This regulatory divergence raises concerns among politicians and experts about its potential effects on Northern Ireland’s AI industry.
The EU’s AI Act will start implementing critical aspects on February 2, 2025, specifically targeting prohibited AI practices that present unacceptable risks. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, emphasizing the importance for organizations to evaluate their AI systems against these regulations.
Ireland benefits from specific exemptions under the EU AI Act, particularly concerning AI used in law enforcement, as outlined in Recital 40. These exemptions allow Ireland to maintain autonomy in regulating biometric AI systems and other high-risk AI applications without adhering to certain EU provisions.
The European Commission’s AI Office has published a second draft of the Code of Practice for general-purpose AI, which includes measures previously rejected during the AI Act negotiations. CCIA Europe warns that if left unaddressed, the drafting process could undermine the legislative integrity of the AI Act and jeopardize the interests of AI developers and innovators.
Scholars are urging the European Union to prioritize the enforcement of the recently passed Artificial Intelligence Act (AIA) to ensure it becomes a global benchmark for proactive AI regulation. They highlight concerns about the adequacy of resources and expertise at the newly created AI Office, which is essential for effective enforcement and maintaining equitable standards across member states.
South Korea’s government is set to outline a comprehensive AI legislation roadmap for 2025 following the passage of the “AI Basic Act.” The new regulatory framework aims to enhance the country’s AI capabilities and direct significant funding towards innovative projects in the sector.
The U.S. political landscape is expected to shift in 2025 with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who will bring advisors like Elon Musk to influence AI regulation. Meanwhile, the European Union is advancing its AI Act, which could create tension with U.S. tech companies concerned about strict regulations.
In 2024, several states enacted laws regulating AI systems, focusing on transparency, compliance, and protection against discrimination. Organizations using AI must understand the varying requirements across jurisdictions to manage regulatory risks effectively.