Overview of the Initiative
The European Union has introduced a new voluntary
AI Code of Practice aimed at assisting companies in complying with forthcoming AI regulations. The primary goal of the code is to address concerns around
transparency,
copyright, and user safety within the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence[1].
Key Focus Areas of the Code
The AI Code of Practice emphasizes several priority areas for compliance, including:
- Transparency: Ensuring that AI systems clearly disclose how they operate and make decisions.
- Copyright Protection: Addressing the legal use of data, especially as it relates to creative and intellectual property.
- Safety: Implementing measures to protect users and prevent misuse of AI applications.
Timeline and Implementation
According to EU officials, the Code of Practice is intended to function as an interim measure to help firms prepare for upcoming and more stringent regulations under the bloc's
AI Act, which will become legally binding later. The voluntary code is expected to be applied by the end of 2025[2].
Implications for Businesses Using AI
With anticipated regulations drawing closer, companies—especially those deploying general-purpose AI models—are encouraged to adopt the code proactively. This is particularly relevant for firms working with advanced tools such as
ChatGPT and similar AI systems, which must ensure that their operations align with EU’s expectations on ethical and legal AI use.
Next Steps
The European Commission has already published multiple drafts of the code, refining guidance for general-purpose AI and clarifying compliance expectations for AI developers and users[3]. Businesses are advised to monitor updates closely and begin preparing internal processes to align with both the voluntary code and the forthcoming legal requirements.
