MEPs demand strict rules over AI applications in criminal matters

Ahead of the artificial intelligence regulation, MEPs insisted that its use by law enforcement authorities and in the judiciary be subject to tight controls in Strasbourg on Monday (October 4). "The idea behind this report is not only to catch up but to create a framework", rapporteur, MEP Petar Vitanov (S&D), told EURACTIV. Although not binding, the new report on artificial intelligence (AI) in criminal matters could pave the way for the European Parliament's to back a risk-based approach, while MEPs will soon have to consider the AI Act proposed by the Commission in April. The text sets out the "principles of fairness, data minimisation, accountability, transparency, non-discrimination and explainability" in order to protect fundamental rights. "AI can be very useful", said Vitanov, but "we are trying to separate the areas where it can be useful from those that bring subjective results". "Facial recognition in the public spaces can easily be turned into mass surveillance", Viatnov said.