On Wednesday, Denmark unveiled a strategic framework designed to assist EU member states in utilizing generative artificial intelligence while adhering to the European Union’s stringent new AI Act—an initiative that has already garnered the support of Microsoft.
A coalition of leading Danish corporations, spearheaded by IT consultancy Netcompany, has published the white paper titled “Responsible Use of AI Assistants in the Public and Private Sector.” This comprehensive blueprint outlines exemplary practices for businesses on how to effectively implement and support AI systems, ensuring compliance within a regulated landscape.
The guide promotes the delivery of “secure and reliable services” to consumers, with key organizations such as Denmark’s Agency for Digital Government, the central business registry CVR, and the pensions’ authority ATP among the founding partners adopting this framework.
Key elements of the guidelines include fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, responsibly deploying AI within society, ensuring compliance with both the AI Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), managing risks and reducing bias, scaling AI implementation, securely storing data, and providing essential staff training.
Netcompany CEO André Rogaczewski stated that the guidelines outlined in the white paper are primarily directed at businesses operating in heavily regulated sectors, particularly financial services. He emphasised his focus on one critical question: “How can we effectively scale the responsible use of AI?”
What is the EU AI Act?
The EU AI Act is a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to regulate the development, usage, and application of artificial intelligence by companies. Officially enacted in August after receiving final approval from EU member states, lawmakers, and the European Commission in May, this law represents a significant milestone in AI governance.
The Act employs a risk-based approach, distinguishing between different AI applications according to their associated risk levels. It has been hailed as the world’s first comprehensive AI law, promising clarity for businesses within a unified EU regulatory framework.
While the rules are technically in effect, the implementation process is expected to be gradual. Many provisions of the Act, particularly those governing general-purpose AI systems, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT will not be fully realized until at least 2026, following a two-year transition period.
The competitiveness of our businesses and the future advancement of Europe depend heavily on the successful development and implementation of AI by both the private and public sectors in the coming years.
Rogaczewski from Netcompany recently pitched a white paper concept to some of Denmark’s leading banks and insurance companies. He discovered that while these institutions are “experimenting” with AI, they lack a “common standard” to fully leverage its potential.
He envisions that the Danish white paper will serve as a valuable guide for other countries and businesses aiming to streamline compliance with the EU AI Act.
Notably, Microsoft’s commitment to these guidelines stands out. “Involving Microsoft was crucial because generative AI solutions often entail algorithms and international technology,” Rogaczewski emphasized, highlighting that the tech giant’s participation showcases the possibility of responsible digitization across borders.
Microsoft, a key supporter of ChatGPT developer OpenAI—valued at an impressive $157 billion this year—also provides OpenAI’s technology to enterprise firms through its Azure cloud computing platform.
Source: CNBC Netcompany
