Swedish expert represents European industry in expert group on AI

Artificial Intelligence is envisioned to be the next great technological leap and will provide possibilities for several businesses. To stay ahead in this development is crucial for Europe’s competitiveness.

– AI has the potential to revolutionise the productivity even in established economies. It will bring changes for many industries, but also more employment opportunities and added growth. That translates to amazing possibilities for Swedish businesses, especially business to business. But the issue is much larger – we’re talking about a technology with potential to benefit all of humanity. AI could increase efficiency in food production, water- and energy use all over the world. It may be part in solving the great challenges we are facing.

The technology must be developed responsibly, and with the right intentions. Therefore the European Commission has formed the expert group to work on draft ethical guidelines for so called Trusted AI.

– The new technology has great potential, but it also brings challenges. If European businesses are to adapt and trust the new technology we need to discuss the potential risks, and agree on clear guidelines. At the same time it’s important that the development is not hampered by excessive regulation. AI has potential uses in a number of areas, it will be impossible to find a one size fit all-solution.

That is one of the reasons the discussions are being held at the European level, says Carolina Brånby.

– Technology transcends borders and projects with a lot of potential are being rolled out in several countries at once. A common regulatory framework is needed as not to stunt the development, and to strengthen the single market. It’s important that Swedish businesses, which are usually far ahead in technological innovation, can compete under the same conditions.

The expert group will also work out recommendations to strengthen the uptake of AI within Europe. That means looking at what conditions need to be met, in the form of sufficient competence and sufficient data.

– If we are ready to, under the right conditions, share our data it could give us access to customised medical treatments, education, services and products.

Many are worried about what consequences AI will have on the European labour market, and that is another issue the expert group are to look at. Already it is clear that education is key.

– Knowledge breeds confidence, and opportunities. Eventually curriculums will have to change, and we need to insure the possibility to educate and re-educate ourselves throughout our lives.

The expert group is made up of representatives from the business world, academy and civil society from all over Europe. A draft of the ethical guidelines for Trusted AI will be presented to The European AI Alliance before Christmas and will be adopted March of next year. The recommendations for strengthening the use of AI in the European Union will be presented in May 2019.