The European Union’s AI Regulation and the Potential for a Strasbourg Effect

The European Union’s AI regulation has some predicting a spate of Brussels copycats. Close, but not quite. With the rise in concerns over the potential harms of AI, nations and regulators are looking for ways to protect their citizens. While most countries have opted for sector-specific regulations, there is a growing desire for more comprehensive laws that can regulate AI across broader society. This is where the concept of a Strasbourg Effect comes into play, offering an alternative to the Brussels Effect.

The Emergence of the Strasbourg Effect

The Strasbourg Effect refers to the adoption and adaptation of Council of Europe Conventions, which do not take direct effect in national law, by nations outside of the Council’s membership. In the case of AI regulation, the Council’s AI Convention is being negotiated with the US, UK, Japan, and other countries. This convention is likely to adopt a more flexible approach, incorporating co-regulation with industry and independent experts where appropriate and paying increased attention to the human rights implications of AI deployment.

Advantages of the Strasbourg Effect

The Council’s AI Convention has significant advantages over the EU’s AI Act. Firstly, it can address the foundational Large Language Models that emerged in early 2023, such as ChatGPT and Bard. Additionally, it is being created after the EU’s Act and can therefore take into account any lessons learned or gaps identified. As liberal democracies, including Australia, the UK, Brazil, Japan, and the US, adopt and adapt these laws, the Strasbourg Effect is expected to be more prominent than any potential Brussels Effect.

The Role of AI legalese decoder in the Situation

In this complex landscape of international AI regulation, the AI legalese decoder can offer valuable assistance. With its advanced natural language processing capabilities, it can help legal professionals navigate and understand the intricate language of AI regulations. By providing clear interpretations and explanations, the AI legalese decoder ensures that the power of AI is deployed for the good of humanity while minimizing legal uncertainties and challenges.

As the “AI moment” continues to unfold, comprehensive and careful international legal coordination is essential. The Strasbourg Effect, along with tools like the AI legalese decoder, can contribute to the development of effective AI regulations that protect citizens and promote ethical AI practices.