European Strategy for Artificial Intelligence

The European Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents the European Union’s (EU) commitment to a transformative vision of AI, grounded in responsible technological development, the promotion of social wellbeing, and the defence of fundamental European values. Launched by the European Commission in 2018 and reinforced over the years, this strategy seeks to position Europe as a centre of excellence in AI, while ensuring its use respects fundamental rights, safety, and human dignity.

In a global context of rapid technological evolution, the European approach stands out by balancing investment in innovation with regulation guided by ethical and social principles. The strategy is based on three main objectives: strengthening the EU’s technological and industrial capacity in AI; fostering its dissemination in sectors with high public and economic impact; and ensuring that AI systems operate in a transparent, fair, and reliable way. This approach was detailed in the Commission’s Communication “AI for Europe” (COM(2018)237).

Since then, the Commission has reinforced this commitment through complementary initiatives, such as the Coordinated Plan on Artificial Intelligence, developed in collaboration with Member States. The revised version of this plan, presented in 2021, sets out concrete measures for joint AI implementation in Europe, including investment in digital infrastructures, support for research and innovation, development of advanced skills, and modernisation of public services through AI.

The Commission has also promoted the creation of ecosystems of innovation and trust, encouraging dialogue between public institutions, research centres, businesses, and civil society. These efforts resulted in key instruments such as the White Paper on Artificial Intelligence (COM(2020)65), which outlines the framework for human-centred AI, based on clear standards and a strong Digital Single Market.

At the international level, the European AI Strategy strengthens the EU’s strategic autonomy, promoting responsible global leadership in the development and use of this technology. Through partnerships with third countries and multilateral organisations, the EU seeks to shape a global AI governance that reflects its democratic values, while safeguarding both the competitiveness of its companies and the protection of its citizens.