Italy Becomes First in EU to Pass Comprehensive AI Regulation
On September 22, 2025, Italy made history by becoming the first country in the European Union to approve a comprehensive law regulating the use of artificial intelligence. This landmark legislation aims to impose significant penalties on individuals who misuse AI technologies, such as generating deepfakes or engaging in harmful activities, while also placing restrictions on children’s access to these technologies.
Government’s Vision and Objectives
The legislation, introduced by Giorgia Meloni’s rightwing government, aligns with the EU’s landmark AI Act. Its primary goals are to promote a human-centric, transparent, and safe use of AI, while emphasizing innovation, cybersecurity, and privacy protections.
Key Provisions of the Law
Among the most notable features of the law are:
- Prison Sentences: The law introduces prison terms ranging from one to five years for the illegal dissemination of AI-generated or manipulated content that causes harm.
- Stricter Penalties: There are harsher penalties for using AI technologies to commit crimes such as fraud and identity theft.
- Transparency and Oversight: The legislation mandates stricter rules for transparency and human oversight in how AI technologies are used across various sectors, including healthcare, education, justice, and sport.
- Parental Consent: Children under the age of 14 will require parental consent to access AI technologies.
Copyright and Intellectual Property
In terms of copyright, the law stipulates that works created with AI assistance are protected if they stem from genuine intellectual effort. Additionally, AI-driven text and data mining will only be allowed for non-copyrighted content or scientific research conducted by authorized institutions.
Government Support and Funding
Alessio Butti, the undersecretary for digital transformation, stated that the law aims to steer AI innovation towards the public interest, ensuring the growth and protection of citizens’ rights. The government has allocated up to €1 billion (£870 million) from a state-backed venture capital fund to support companies engaged in AI, cybersecurity, and telecommunications. However, critics argue that this amount is relatively small compared to the investments being made by the United States and China.
Conclusion
As Italy sets a precedent within the EU for AI regulation, this legislation could significantly influence how artificial intelligence is developed and implemented in the country. The law reflects a commitment to balancing innovation with ethical considerations, ensuring that technology serves the needs and rights of all citizens.
