Decentralised and Agentic AI: Boosting Innovation, Competitiveness, and Responsible AI
On 5 February 2026, the EESC Employers’ Group hosted a high-level policy roundtable organized by the Digital Currencies Governance Group (DCGG). The event, titled “Decentralised & Agentic AI”, focused on opportunities and solutions within the EU for enhancing innovation, competitiveness, and responsible AI.
The gathering brought together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and academia to discuss Europe’s approach to the rapidly advancing field of AI. The message from the event was unequivocal: it is time for Europe to move beyond fear and hesitation regarding AI.
AI as a Strategic Lever
According to Sandra Parthie, President of the EESC Employers’ Group, “Artificial intelligence is not a threat to be managed, but a strategic lever that must be understood, shaped and actively used to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness.”
Despite more than 80% of European companies recognizing AI as strategically important, only a few have implemented the technology in their operations. The gap between understanding AI and actual integration is not conceptual but practical.
The Need for Simpler Regulations
Businesses require simpler rules, faster deployment, and a clear signal that innovation is preferred over hesitation. The real risk for Europe lies not in over-engaging with AI but in fragmented responses and delayed deployment in the real economy.
To transition from strategy to large-scale implementation, a decisive shift in mindset is necessary. AI should be viewed not merely as a regulatory issue but as an economic and industrial opportunity. While regulation is essential for ensuring trust, legal certainty, and responsibility, overly complex regulations can hinder the very innovators that Europe needs.
Addressing the Needs of Innovators
Innovators, SMEs, and scale-ups require:
- Simpler access to funding
- Reduced administrative burdens
- Predictable intellectual property rules
- Regulatory proportionality
The Employers’ Group calls for a clear political signal that Europe is committed to competing globally and fostering innovation rather than merely regulating locally.
Investment and Ecosystem Development
As Michal Boni, a member of the EESC Employers’ Group, stated, “Real investment is fundamental, but we must address expectations and companies’ efforts.” Companies will be more inclined to invest when the AI ecosystem is simpler, with clear rules and tangible advantages.
There is an urgent need for a new timetable and improved conditions tailored to the capabilities of SMEs.
The Promise of Decentralised and Agentic AI
Decentralised and agentic AI presents new avenues for enhancing innovation, security, and societal resilience. Rather than resisting these advancements, Europe should aim to shape them, ensuring that governance frameworks allow for experimentation while maintaining trust.
The AI Act provides a solid foundation, but emerging developments such as agentic AI, sustainability imperatives, and cyber resilience will require continuous attention and adaptable governance.
Embracing AI with Confidence
The focal point is not about choosing between innovation and responsibility. Europe must recognize that remaining competitive, sovereign, and socially sustainable hinges on its ability to embrace artificial intelligence with confidence, clarity, and ambition.
The task ahead is to turn caution into capability and potential into concrete economic value.
