Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) makes use of computer science to create systems capable of simulating human-like capabilities such as reasoning problem-solving and learning. AI systems systems are continuously adapting and improving their performance over time. They use algorithms to analyse big volumes of data to identify complex patterns and solve complex problems. Among other things, AI systems automate repetitive tasks, reduce human error and process data faster. All these improvements boost productivity and competitiveness, while enabling quicker and better decision-making, across all sectors.

The EU wants to reap the benefits of AI while ensuring it remains safe and trustworthy. The European approach to AI aims to boost AI innovation and adoption in Europe, strengthening competitiveness and technological sovereignty. Following this logic, the AI Act makes an innovative risk-based approach to enable research and innovation while ensuring that citizens can trust AI systems and content.

To further ensure the EU’s position as a global leader in AI, the Commission adopted the AI Continent action plan in April 2025. It aims to boost the AI innovation capabilities and turn EU strengths—such as its top-tier talent and robust traditional industries—into AI accelerators. This plan also explores how to harness the untapped potential of researchers and industries to shape the next phase of AI development, ultimately boosting economic growth and strengthening competitiveness across the EU. 

Building upon the action plan, the Apply AI Strategy supports adoption of AI in strategic sectors, enhancing European technological sovereignty. The Strategy harnesses the transformative potential of AI for industries and the public sector and encourages companies to embrace AI through an AI First Policy while considering the risks. Together, these initiatives form an integrated approach, where the AI Continent action plan sets the broad strategic direction for developing AI capabilities, and the Apply AI Strategy focuses on uptake, helping industries and the public sector adopt AI and promoting European AI solutions necessary to realise those strategic goals. As an example, the Commission is mobilising major investments in AI Factories and gigafactories and supercomputing access, to support the training of large AI models by European startups and researchers. 

The European AI Office was inaugurated in June 2024 as part of the Commission. It plays a key role on the enforcement and implementation of the AI Act in collaboration with the member states. The AI Office also fosters collaboration among various stakeholders and promotes international cooperation and dialogue on AI matters. By championing these initiatives, the European AI Office propels Europe into a leadership position in the responsible and sustainable development of AI technologies.