The EU’s AI Act may not create a global regulatory influence but is likely to define standards for biometric technologies in the EU, particularly affecting the Digital Identity Wallet. Research highlights the importance of protecting fundamental rights amidst the challenges posed by biometric surveillance regulations, including exceptions for law enforcement.
The European Union’s AI Act may not create a significant global impact in altering AI regulations in non-EU countries. However, it is poised to shape future standards for biometric and identification technologies within the EU, particularly concerning projects like the EU Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet. A key aspect being evaluated is whether the AI Act sufficiently protects fundamental rights in this context, as highlighted in a new research paper examining its implications within the EU.
According to research conducted by Federica Paolucci, a Ph.D. candidate at Bocconi University, the AI Act aims to set protective benchmarks for biometric and identification tools. This intention aligns with the EU’s goal of strategically managing innovation along with regulatory frameworks, especially in initiatives like the Digital Identity Wallet. Nevertheless, the paper warns that there may be overlooked risks in enforcing these regulations.
The forthcoming paper, titled “From Global Standards to Local Safeguards: The AI Act, Biometrics, and Fundamental Rights,” will appear in Springer by late 2024. It discusses the necessity for the AI Act’s principles to steer other biometric data projects and investigates the EU’s approach to biometric identification regulation. While the act intends to introduce safety standards, actual enactment will depend on individual EU member states, which necessitates careful observation.
One critical concern within the framework is the use of both real-time and retrospective facial recognition technology. Although the AI Act prohibits public biometric surveillance, it does allow exceptions for law enforcement under specific conditions. The paper acknowledges some achievements of the AI Act, including the Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment framework, but raises concerns about the potential inconsistencies in biometric surveillance practices and the effectiveness of rights protection mechanisms.
The AI Act aims to establish a framework for biometric standards within the EU, potentially setting a precedent for balancing innovation with fundamental rights protection. While it prohibits general biometric surveillance, it contains exceptions that could affect rights enforcement. Close observation of member state implementations and ongoing discussions around the balance of security and rights are crucial for ensuring the act’s effectiveness.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
