EU Unveils AI Code of Practice for Transparency and Safety
The EU has unveiled its AI Code of Practice, a voluntary set of guidelines focusing on transparency, copyright, safety, and social security. It applies to all providers of general-purpose AI models and is set to come into effect on August 2, 2023, with enforcement starting a year later.
Co-designed by AI stakeholders, the code aims to align with their needs and promote responsible AI development. While adherence is voluntary, non-signatories may not receive the same legal certainty.
The code's chapters on safety and social security specifically target providers of advanced AI models. It covers a wide range of AI applications, from general-purpose models to those with specific use cases. So far, no detailed lists of signatories or non-participants have been made public, but major tech companies like Meta have been actively involved in AI discussions and are expected to engage with the code.
The EU's AI Code of Practice is a significant step towards responsible AI development. It encourages transparency, copyright protection, safety, and social security measures. Although voluntary, it offers legal certainty to those who adopt it. As enforcement begins in 2024, AI providers are urged to consider and align with these guidelines.
