In an interview, Sofia Casimiro, a specialist in law and information technology, asserts that the European Union’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI) legislation is not incorrect but contends that the EU’s efforts to safeguard fundamental rights sometimes lead to extremities. She emphasizes the challenge of correctly addressing AI.
Casimiro argues that it is possible to ensure the protection of privacy, freedom of information, and freedom of expression without excessively restricting technological innovations, particularly those crucial to the EU’s progression. She identifies three primary interests: individual, corporate, and state interests, particularly in the context of economic development.
Casimiro positions these interests within the global landscape, highlighting a technological duel between China and the United States, with the EU aiming to protect the individual and uphold its values. “This is what significantly distinguishes the European Union,” she states, acknowledging a legislative imbalance that may hinder collective interests.
She warns that if the EU fails to create conducive conditions for AI tool development, companies may hesitate, noting that China has advanced significantly in AI. According to her, China’s lack of concern for privacy and freedom of expression contrasts with a necessary balance absent in China.
The technological race between China and the US, she explains, positions the EU at a disadvantage in terms of AI capabilities, given fewer resources compared to other countries’ enterprises.
Data, being vital for AI, will leave businesses “with their hands tied,” even with optimal legislation if free data handling conditions are absent. “Once the citizen becomes the primary focus,” every individual’s consent is needed to use their data, as Meta currently practices with EU adults.
Disinformation is notably mishandled within EU legislation, Casimiro indicates, as the union struggles with this issue due to limitations posed by freedoms of expression and information.
To resolve these challenges, Casimiro argues that certain individual freedoms and rights must be curtailed to strengthen the EU technologically, as losing ground in AI could also mean forfeiting these rights.
