The European AI Office has released the first draft of the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice, marking a critical milestone in the ongoing effort to establish clear standards for the development and deployment of AI across the European Union. Crafted by independent experts, this draft will be discussed with over 1,000 stakeholders in a series of collaborative meetings aimed at refining the Code for a final version due in April 2025. This Code, focused on guiding general-purpose AI model providers, forms part of the EU’s broader regulatory framework under the recently enacted AI Act, which came into force in August 2024.
The initial draft was developed through contributions from various experts serving as Chairs and Vice-Chairs of four thematic working groups, each focusing on a specific area of AI governance. The drafting process drew on best practices from both European and international approaches, providing an important foundation for what will ultimately be a practical framework for managing AI risks and promoting transparency.
This draft reflects a phased approach to its development, with four iterative rounds of revision planned before the final version. In presenting this first draft, the Chairs and Vice-Chairs outline guiding principles, objectives, and foundational standards that will be further shaped by ongoing feedback. The draft not only includes open questions to steer discussions but also highlights potential performance metrics and risk assessment criteria, setting the stage for a structured, risk-based approach to AI governance.
Among the key objectives, the Code aims to promote transparency in AI operations, establish copyright standards, and create a taxonomy of risks for the most advanced general-purpose AI models. The final document is expected to provide risk assessment guidelines, technical safeguards, and governance measures for a select group of advanced AI models that may pose systemic risks. Additionally, it will feature specific provisions to support small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups, ensuring that compliance measures are appropriately scaled to the provider’s size and operational scope. Exemptions are also expected to be included for open-source AI models, aligning with the EU AI Act’s recognition of the need for flexibility in AI model development.
The upcoming Code of Practice Plenary will facilitate direct engagement with stakeholders, allowing representatives from EU member states, international observers, and industry participants to share insights and feedback. Each of the four working groups will meet on separate days, with the Chairs updating participants on recent developments and inviting remarks. On Friday, November 22, the Chairs will present key takeaways from these discussions in a plenary session, ensuring that feedback from a diverse range of voices is incorporated into the Code’s next iteration.
In addition to the in-person discussions, the draft is available to stakeholders through the European AI Office’s Futurium platform, where written feedback can be submitted until November 28. This dual approach—both real-time discussions and online submissions—reflects the AI Office’s commitment to inclusive engagement, ensuring the Code reflects the practical needs and concerns of all relevant parties.
The AI Office has also published a dedicated Q&A to help stakeholders navigate the complexities of the AI Act as they pertain to general-purpose AI. This resource clarifies the regulatory framework underpinning the Code, aiding stakeholders in understanding both the Act’s specific requirements and the broader regulatory vision that guides the Code’s development.
Once finalized, the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice will serve as a central pillar in the EU’s strategy to regulate AI responsibly. It will establish comprehensive standards for transparency, risk management, and compliance that can adapt to the rapid evolution of AI technology, promoting safe and ethical AI practices across the European Union.
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