EU Policy. AI Office set-up announced, Lucilla Sioli to be in charge

 
The Commission has announced the establishment of a new unit tasked with overseeing the implementation of the AI Act.
Lucilla Sioli, currently serving as Director for AI and Digital Industry within the European Commission, will lead the newly formed AI Office, as announced by the EU executive today (29 May). Sioli, an EU official since 1997, brings extensive experience to her new role.
The AI Office, a reorganization of an existing unit dedicated to AI within the Commission, will comprise five main departments, each headed by a director responsible for ensuring compliance with the AI Act. With a total staff of 140, including experts in technology, law, and policy, the office plans to recruit around 80 additional personnel.
These departments will focus on key areas such as regulation and compliance, safety, excellence and robotics, AI for societal good, and innovation. Additionally, two advisors will provide expertise on scientific approaches and international affairs.
Contrary to previous expectations, the EU executive has expedited the approval of internal restructuring, with appointments and unit establishment scheduled to take effect on 16 June.
The AI Office, an internal department within the Commission, will oversee the enforcement of regulations governing general-purpose AI systems and serve as the central coordinating body for AI policy across the EU. It will collaborate with other departments within the EU executive, its agencies, companies, and the 27 Member States.
As the AI Act is set to officially enter into force in June, companies are gearing up to meet compliance deadlines. Prohibited practices specified in the AI Act will face bans starting in November, with general-purpose AI rules coming into effect in May 2025, followed by obligations for high-risk systems in three years.
The AI Board, comprising the 27 national regulators, will convene for its inaugural meeting in June to assist the AI Office in harmonizing regulations. Member states will have twelve months to appoint formal regulatory authorities before attending these initial meetings.
Recruitment for the AI Office is underway, with the Commission seeking experts from national administrations, as well as legal, policy, and technology professionals, through a recent call for applications.
Source: euronews.com
The post EU Policy. AI Office set-up announced, Lucilla Sioli to be in charge appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.