Документи - Think Tank - Европейски парламент

Накратко - Algorithmic discrimination under the AI Act and the GDPR - 26-02-2025

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:23:03 GMT

After the entry into force of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act in August 2024, an open question is its interplay with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The AI Act aims to promote human-centric, trustworthy and sustainable AI, while respecting individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms, including their right to the protection of personal data. One of the AI Act's main objectives is to mitigate discrimination and bias in the development, deployment and use of 'high-risk AI systems'. To achieve this, the act allows 'special categories of personal data' to be processed, based on a set of conditions (e.g. privacy-preserving measures) designed to identify and to avoid discrimination that might occur when using such new technology. The GDPR, however, seems more restrictive in that respect. The legal uncertainty this creates might need to be addressed through legislative reform or further guidance.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2025 - ЕП

Briefing - Revised Product Liability Directive - 19-02-2025

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 23:00:00 GMT

As products have become more complex in the digital age, the need for a new directive on liability of defective products has arisen. The new directive will revise the existing Product Liability Directive, adopted nearly 40 years ago in 1985. The directive brings the European Union's product liability regime up to speed with the digital age, circular economy business models and global value chains by ensuring that consumers receive compensation for defective products, including those manufactured outside the EU. It introduces new provisions to address liability for products such as software (including artificial intelligence systems) and digital services that affect how the product works (e.g. navigation services in autonomous vehicles). It also alleviates the burden of proof for victims under certain circumstances. The new directive on liability of defective products was published in the EU's Official Journal on 18 November 2024. It entered into force on 9 December 2024. Member States must transpose the directive into their national laws and implement the changes by December 2026. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2025 - ЕП

Накратко - Strategic dependencies: Threats to EU sovereignty in communication infrastructure - 05-02-2025

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:17:41 GMT

Rising geopolitical tensions and dependencies on digital infrastructure belonging to foreign providers are triggering concerns that the European Union's technological sovereignty might be under threat. Connectivity infrastructure such as submarine cables, mobile technologies and satellites underpin the digital services used by EU citizens, businesses and governments. Being dependent on foreign providers of such infrastructure calls for a strategic approach to balancing technological efficiency with the public interest and national security.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2025 - ЕП

Briefing - Revision of the EU legislation on design protection - 22-01-2025

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 23:00:00 GMT

The EU design legislative reform package includes two texts amending Council Regulation (EC) No 6/2002 (the Community Design Regulation) and, in parallel, recasting Directive 98/71/EC (the Design Directive) to align the design protection system in the EU with the digital age and make it more accessible and efficient for applicants. In terms of digitalisation, the update of the requirements for representing designs will allow applicants to file new digital design types (e.g. by using 3D printing technologies). In terms of efficiency, the reform package aims to make application procedures cheaper and simpler and registration procedures faster, while also ensuring greater predictability and legal certainty for stakeholders looking for design protection in the EU. Within the European �Ϸ��վ, the files were assigned to the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), with Gilles Lebreton (ID, France) as rapporteur. The EU design legislative reform package was published in the EU's Official Journal on 18 November 2024; the two texts entered into force 20 days after their publication in the Official Journal. The Community Design Regulation will apply from 1 May 2025 (with a few articles applying from 1 July 2026), whereas Member States will have to transpose the Design Directive into their national legal systems by 9 December 2027. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2025 - ЕП

Briefing - EU Cyber Resilience Act - 20-12-2024

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 23:00:00 GMT

New technologies come with new risks, and the impact of cyber-attacks through digital products has increased dramatically in recent years. Consumers are increasingly falling victim to security flaws linked to digital products such as baby monitors, robo-vacuum cleaners, Wi-Fi routers and alarm systems. For businesses, the importance of ensuring that digital products in the supply chain are secure has become pivotal, considering three in five vendors have already lost money as a result of product security gaps. The European Union's lawmakers signed the 'cyber-resilience act' in October 2024. The regulation imposes cybersecurity obligations on all products with digital elements whose intended and foreseeable use includes direct or indirect data connection to a device or network. The regulation introduces cybersecurity by design and by default principles and imposes a duty of care for the lifecycle of products. The Cyber Resilience Act was published in the EU's Official Journal on 20 November 2024. It entered into force in December 2024 and will apply in full as of 11 December 2027. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Briefing - Cryptographic security: Critical to Europe's digital sovereignty - 06-11-2024

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 15:58:32 GMT

By the 2030s, quantum computers might compromise traditional cryptography, putting digital infrastructure at high risk in the European Union (EU) and around the world. Specifically, it is expected that quantum computers' unique capabilities will allow them to solve complex mathematical problems, such as breaking the traditional cryptographic systems used universally. The confidentiality, integrity and authenticity of sensitive data – including health, financial, security and defence information – will be exposed to threats from any actor possessing a sufficiently powerful quantum computer. There is a pressing need for the EU to start preparing its digital assets to face this risk. Post-quantum cryptography (which uses classical computer properties) and quantum cryptography (which uses quantum mechanical properties) are the two types of critical technology able to protect digital infrastructure from quantum computer attacks. Robust post-quantum cryptography algorithms have been identified, but swift and efficient implementation is crucial before malicious actors exploit the power of quantum computers. Experts stress the need for quantum preparedness to be put in place now, with some of them even warning of a 'quantum cybersecurity Armageddon'. Several countries are adopting strategies to address post-quantum cryptography. The EU is working with Member States and the United States to speed up the transition to post-quantum cryptography, and is also exploring long-term quantum cryptography initiatives.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Briefing - Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Henna Virkkunen – Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy - 15-10-2024

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:30:09 GMT

Henna Virkkunen is a Finnish politician and member of the National Coalition Party, which is affiliated with the European People's Party group in the European �Ϸ��վ. She has been a Member of the European �Ϸ��վ since 2014, serving inter alia on the Committees on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), and Transport and Tourism (TRAN). She was also a member of the Committee of Inquiry investigating the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware (PEGA) and the Special Committee on Artificial Intelligence in a Digital Age (AIDA). In �Ϸ��վ, Virkkunen has worked on various technology and cybersecurity dossiers such as the Digital Services Act, the Cyber-Resilience Act and the Connecting Europe Facility. Before her election to the European �Ϸ��վ, Virkkunen was a member of the Finnish �Ϸ��վ (2007-2014) and was part of the Finnish government as minister for education and science, minister for public administration and local government, and transport minister. Born in 1972 in Joutsa, Finland, Virkkunen holds master's (2001) and bachelor's degrees (2000) from the University of Jyväskylä. This is one of a set of briefings designed to give an overview of issues of interest relating to the portfolios of the Commissioners designate. All these briefings can be found at: https://epthinktank.eu/commissioner_hearings_2024.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Briefing - Gigabit infrastructure act - 20-06-2024

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 22:00:00 GMT

The EU's digital decade connectivity target is designed to ensure that by 2030 a fixed gigabit network of a very high capacity (1 Gbps) will be covering all EU households and that all populated areas will have 5G. This would enable the deployment of a high-quality digital infrastructure underpinning almost all sectors of a modern and innovative economy, while also ensuring that citizens and business can reap the benefits of the internet of things, machine-to-machine technologies, cloud computing and big data. In April 2024, the EU co-legislators signed the Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA), a regulation that reviewed and replaced the Broadband Cost Reduction Directive. The regulation should facilitate and encourage the provision of networks of a very high capacity by promoting the joint use of existing physical infrastructure and enabling a more efficient deployment of new physical infrastructure, so that such networks can be rolled out faster and at a lower cost. The GIA was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 8 May 2024 and entered into force on 11 May 2024. It will be fully applicable from November 2025. Second edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Briefing - A future-proof network for the EU: Full fibre and 5G - 26-04-2024

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:47:54 GMT

Advanced digital network infrastructure and digital services will be key in shaping the competitiveness of many European Union (EU) sectors – among them manufacturing, energy and healthcare – in the near future. Furthermore, these infrastructure and services are at the core of the twin digital and green transition that seeks to leverage the synergies between technological advancements and environmental sustainability. It is therefore necessary to ensure that the EU's networks are up to the task, including in terms of transmission speed. Having high-performing fixed and mobile networks with a higher transmission speed can have a positive effect on economic development as well, by boosting the gross domestic product. In its Digital Decade strategy, the European Commission put forward its vision for new strategic connectivity targets for 2030, such as preparing the EU for the roll-out of the next generation of broadband infrastructure with gigabit speeds. This briefing aims to provide an overview of full fibre and 5G mobile networks as part of the EU's Digital Decade goal to accelerate deployment and investment in future-proof infrastructures. In this context, it discusses the current state of full fibre and 5G mobile technology in the EU, including the challenges of attracting private investment, and explores new business models for network deployment. With 7 years left to reach the 2030 connectivity targets, it is paramount to understand where the EU stands in terms of future-proof network deployment, address the challenges and identify the opportunities that would help the EU telecom sector to thrive.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Накратко - Gigabit infrastructure act - 16-04-2024

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:16:58 GMT

In February 2023, the European Commission proposed a regulation aimed at reducing the cost of deploying gigabit electronic communications networks, and repealing Directive 2014/61/EU (the Broadband Cost Reduction Directive). After three rounds of trilogue meetings, the �Ϸ��վ and Council reached a provisional agreement on the text in February 2024, and now need to formally adopt it. �Ϸ��վ is scheduled to vote on the text during its second April plenary session.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Накратко - Quantum: What is it and where does the EU stand? - 10-04-2024

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 22:00:00 GMT

The emergence of quantum information science and technologies marks a pivotal moment in technological progress. As the strategic importance of quantum gains global recognition, efforts are intensifying to harness its potential while also addressing security and regulatory challenges. With China, the United States and the European Union investing heavily in quantum, the race for technological dominance is well under way.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Накратко - Design package - 06-03-2024

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:05:34 GMT

In November 2022, the European Commission tabled a pair of proposals as part of a 'design package', as a step towards coherent rules fit for purpose in today's digital age and more efficient for applicants. The first proposal was the amendment of the Community Design Regulation and the second, the recast of the Design Directive. During its March 2024 plenary session, the European �Ϸ��վ is set to vote on the political agreement on both files reached in trilogue negotiations with the Council.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Briefing - The path to 6G - 30-01-2024

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:00:00 GMT

The European Union needs high-performing digital connectivity infrastructure to give all citizens the best access to digital services and to maintain prosperity. In the relentless pursuit of innovation and connectivity, the development of mobile communications technologies has been a defining force in shaping the way we communicate, work, and live. As the 2030s approach, the groundwork for the next frontier in mobile communications is being laid – the era of 6G. Building upon the successes and advances of previous mobile generations, 6G promises to revolutionise the connectivity landscape. From ultra-high data rates and low-latency communication to the integration of artificial intelligence, 6G is poised to reshape the way we interact with the digital world. However, with the promise of unprecedented capabilities comes a host of challenges. Critical aspects that demand attention in the development of 6G networks are privacy and cybersecurity. As 6G aims to push the boundaries of connectivity, enabling innovations such as holographic communication, seamless extended reality, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) on a massive scale, the potential risks to privacy and cybersecurity are magnified (e.g. mass data collection). Another critical aspect is its environmental footprint. While 6G aims for energy efficiency, the increasing demand for data and connectivity may still pose challenges related to energy consumption. Balancing technological progress with environmental considerations remains a key objective for the development of 6G. Countries and companies that lead in 6G development and deployment are expected to gain a competitive edge in terms of technological innovation, economic growth, and influence in shaping global standards. The global race to 6G has already begun.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2024 - ЕП

Проучване - Future Shocks 2023: Anticipating and weathering the next storms - 20-07-2023

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 22:00:00 GMT

�Ϸ��վ started monitoring future shocks during the coronavirus crisis, and has continued to do so during Russia's unprecedented war on Ukraine. The annual 'Future Shocks' series reviews global risks, with a focus on specific risks and the capabilities and resilience of the EU system in the face of multiple challenges. It seeks to provide up-to-date, objective and authoritative information on these risks, based on risk literature from a broad range of sources. 'Future Shocks' includes, but is not limited to, areas where the EU has primary competence, and identifies the benefits of concerted action by the EU as well as the ability of its institutions and Member States to find new and effective solutions to deal with major shocks. The 2023 edition, the second in this annual series, highlights 15 risks related to geopolitics, climate change, health, economics and democracy that could occur in the coming decade, and 10 policy responses to address existing governance capacity and possible ways to enhance capabilities within the EU. Among the options set out are those previously included in European �Ϸ��վ resolutions, positions from other EU institutions, and policy papers from think tanks and stakeholders.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2023 - ЕП

Накратко - Network cost contribution debate - 03-04-2023

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 22:00:00 GMT

With the current pace of technological innovation, it is clear that the volume of data being exchanged is larger than ever and will only continue growing. The EU's ambitious connectivity targets are pushing policymakers to take a more forward-thinking approach to the telecoms sector. One question EU decision-makers must answer is whether the main digital players, who generate huge volumes of traffic and revenue using the EU's telecoms infrastructure, should contribute to the cost of network roll-out and, if so, whether that would be 'fair'.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2023 - ЕП

Накратко - Women in the digital sector - 02-03-2023

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:00:00 GMT

International Women's Day on 8 March provides an opportunity both to celebrate women's achievements and to take stock of progress towards gender equality. The gender gap in the digital sector, in areas ranging from education to salaries, persists. Women's increased participation in the sector could help solve the shortage of information and communications technology (ICT) professionals needed for the EU's digital sector to grow. It could also yield economic benefits in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita.

Източник : © Европейски съюз, 2023 - ЕП