A Dutch data protection watchdog has warned that generative AI risks evolving into a regulatory “wild west” without clear safeguards, urging governments and organisations to anchor development in fundamental rights and democratic values.
The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) outlined its concerns in a new vision document, emphasizing that generative AI offers transformative benefits across sectors such as healthcare, education, and business, but also presents profound societal risks if deployed irresponsibly. The regulator said generative AI has already become deeply integrated into everyday life and contributes to what it described as a broad societal transformation driven by rapid technological adoption.
According to the AP, the technology’s rapid expansion has led to the centralisation of vast amounts of sensitive data, increasing dependence on a small number of providers and exposing individuals and organisations to new vulnerabilities. The authority warned that without effective oversight, such concentration could undermine Europe’s ability to control its digital future and protect citizens’ rights.
The regulator outlined four possible future scenarios for generative AI by 2030. In the most concerning “wild west” scenario, weak regulation combined with widespread adoption could result in pervasive misinformation, diminished human oversight, and widespread violations of fundamental rights. Personal data could be misused, deepfakes could influence elections, and trust in institutions could erode.
By contrast, the AP’s preferred “values at work” scenario envisions strong regulation paired with innovation, enabling responsible generative AI systems that enhance productivity while protecting citizens’ rights. In that model, effective governance frameworks, transparency requirements, and cooperation between regulators and industry would help ensure trust and accountability.
The authority stressed that generative AI must comply with existing legal frameworks, including the General Data Protection Regulation and the EU AI Act, which establish requirements for transparency, accountability, and risk mitigation.
Ultimately, the AP urged policymakers, companies, and civil society to prioritise long-term societal values over short-term technological gains. Without decisive action now, the regulator warned, generative AI could reshape society in ways that weaken privacy, democracy, and public trust rather than strengthening them.
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