The European Commission hosted the first official meeting of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Board in Brussels, marking the beginning of a new era for AI governance in the European Union. The meeting follows the entry into force of the EU AI Act on August 1, 2024, a landmark regulation designed to shape the development and use of AI across the EU.

This inaugural session represents a significant step in the EU’s commitment to building a robust framework for the governance of AI technologies. The AI Board comprises high-level representatives from the European Commission and all EU Member States, tasked with overseeing the implementation of the AI Act and enhancing the adoption of AI across the Union.

During the meeting, the Board discussed key priorities for advancing AI uptake and governance. A primary focus was on establishing the organizational structure of the AI Board, including the adoption of its rules of procedure. The session also covered updates on broader EU AI policies, such as the GenAI4EU initiative, which promotes the development of generative AI technologies, and international AI-related activities.

Additionally, the Board received a progress update on the first deliverables related to the implementation of the EU AI Act. These deliverables will form the foundation for ensuring that AI technologies are used in ways that are safe, ethical, and in compliance with EU regulations. The meeting also provided an opportunity for Member States to exchange best practices on AI governance, aiming to create a harmonized approach to AI regulation across the bloc.

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) and representatives from EEA/EFTA countries, including Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland, participated as observers, reflecting the broad interest in AI governance beyond the EU’s borders. The EU AI Office, which serves as the Secretariat for the AI Board, played a central role in organizing and supporting the session.

This meeting builds on a preparatory session held in June, where the groundwork for the EU AI Act’s implementation was laid. As the AI Board moves forward, the Commission and Member States aim to ensure a strong and timely setup for the governance framework, facilitating effective collaboration and enforcement of the EU AI Act’s provisions across the EU.

With the EU AI Act now in effect, the EU is setting the stage for responsible AI development, aiming to become a global leader in AI governance while safeguarding fundamental rights and promoting innovation.

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