Policymakers in Europe are focusing on artificial intelligence developments, and CDT Europe has released its monthly AI Bulletin for February 2025. The bulletin covers laws and policies related to AI, their implications for Europe, fundamental rights, and democracy.
The third global summit on AI took place recently in France. It was the first since the Artificial Intelligence Act came into force. However, instead of emphasizing the regulatory framework, the European Commission focused on innovation and deregulation. Commissioner Henna Virkkunen promised an “innovation-friendly” implementation of the AI Act. President Ursula Von der Leyen also emphasized innovation in her speech at the summit while announcing €200 billion for AI investment.
Early February saw two milestones for the AI Act: guidelines were published outlining prohibited AI practices and defining AI systems under the act. These guidelines clarify prohibitions and provide examples of banned practices while interpreting existing legal frameworks such as GDPR and others.
On February 11, the European Commission announced its intention to withdraw its proposal for an AI Liability Directive due to a lack of foreseeable agreement. This withdrawal delays developing avenues enabling effective remedies for individuals affected by AI-induced harms.
The publication of the third draft of the Code of Practice was delayed after a request from drafters for more time to incorporate comprehensive feedback from stakeholders. Despite this delay, the deadline remains May 2, 2025.
In other news, various assessments will be conducted regarding how businesses are impacted by the AI Act as part of a broader simplification agenda by the European Commission. Meanwhile, several data protection authorities have taken action against DeepSeek’s chatbot over jurisdictional issues.
CDT Europe also presents recommended reads for further insights into current developments in AI within Europe.
