AI as a Black Box for the Society

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with profound implications for society, raising questions about its trustworthiness, alignment with foundational values, and impact on human rights. This paper offers a comprehensive examination of AI, encompassing its definitions, functionalities, regulatory frameworks, and societal implications, with a particular focus on its impact on human rights. Beginning with an exploration of the core principles of AI and its evolving landscape, the paper addresses concerns surrounding the trustworthiness of AI systems. It scrutinizes the potential implications of AI for the values underpinning the European Union, highlighting the risks of breaches of fundamental rights and ethical norms. Moreover, the paper provides a closer look at sectors experiencing a surge in AI adoption, such as healthcare and education.

Central to the discourse is the examination of the EU AI Act and its role in safeguarding human rights while promoting innovation. The paper evaluates how the regulatory framework outlined in the AI Act seeks to mitigate the risks posed by AI systems, ensuring compliance with fundamental rights and ethical standards. Furthermore, the paper engages with debates surrounding the impact of AI on human rights, drawing attention to both the opportunities and challenges inherent in AI deployment. It discusses the concerns raised by civil society organizations, including the risks of discriminatory practices and mass surveillance, and evaluates calls for robust measures within the AI Act.

In conclusion, the paper has shed light on the multifaceted impact of AI on society, emphasising its implications for human rights, fundamental values, and regulatory frameworks. The following months remain uncertain as other documents await release and approval by the member states. Questions persist regarding whether this new regulation will have a “Brussels effect”, influencing global AI governance, or whether its “rigid” construction will confine its impact to only European jurisdiction.