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Europe is home to leading expertise in the digital and Artificial Intelligence industries. Together with the Slovenian Embassy and the Slovenian Research Association, the European Movement in Belgium organized a panel debate with first-rate experts on what AI could mean for Europe. 

 

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Originated in the area of computer science, artificial intelligence is a wide-ranging and interdisciplinary branch concerned with the capability of machines to imitate intelligent human behaviour. AI is used in a plethora of activities, the most known applications are Google Search, Siri, self-driving cars, … Behind these technologies are different types of algorithms, which allow machines to learn how to mimic human intelligence. This technology offers many opportunities for our everyday lives as became very clear during the COVID-19 pandemic.  However, AI also comes with risks and possible threats such as privacy violations, automation-spurred job loss, ‘deepfakes’, automated weapons and large-scale cyberattacks to name a few. The late physicist, Steven Hawking, even claimed that “AI could be the worst event in the history of our civilization, unless we learn how to prepare for, and avoid, the potential risks." Needless to say that it is paramount for the European Union to talk about these risks and to develop a strategy in order to be able to respond quickly and uniformly to challenges and threats associated with AI. 

Firmly committed to a resilient and autonomous Union, Slovenia made an excellent partner to stimulate the debate around the future of artificial intelligence. The event was hosted as part of Slovenia’s six-month programme as Presiding Member State of the Council of the European Union. By inviting different experts on AI and associated technologies, we applied a kaleidoscopic approach to the topic which allowed the participants to view the domain in an interdisciplinary and multifaceted manner. During this panel debate our experts reflected on the use of key technologies for growth and cooperation within the EU and how our Union will prepare itself for possible threats. We can conclude that the future is uncertain. However it is very clear that the digital transformation has accelerated and that an adequate answer is needed. After this fruitful debate, the Slovenian Embassy hosted a network event with artisanal drinks and Slovenian specialties.