EU AI Act Enters Implementation Phase

Europe’s landmark AI Act has officially entered the implementation phase, ushering in one of the world’s most comprehensive frameworks for governing artificial intelligence. The law targets high-risk AI systems, including biometric identification, predictive policing, and AI in critical infrastructure, with strict requirements for transparency, human oversight, and risk assessments.

Key milestones:

• As of February 2025, banned uses (such as social scoring and emotion manipulation) are prohibited across the EU.
• By August 2025, member states must set up enforcement agencies, establish reporting processes, and define penalties, with fines reaching up to €35 million or 7% of global turnover for serious violations.
• In 2026, providers of general-purpose AI (including U.S. firms operating in Europe) will face requirements for impact assessments, documentation, and proof of human involvement in key decisions.

Privacy advocates praise the Act as a model for balancing innovation with accountability, but some industry leaders warn of compliance burdens. As enforcement begins, the Act’s success will depend on regulators’ ability to monitor, audit, and enforce its provisions.