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European Week of Regions and Cities

AI - challenges and opportunities for regional innovation and the digital transition

The wave of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already penetrated all aspects of life and will have strong consequences for regional innovation capacities and the fairness of the digital transition. Regions that lack skilled AI talents or infrastructure might fall behind, as rapid advancements in AI continue to reshape industries and economies. However, AI can also be a catalyst for place-based solutions, offering opportunities to boost regional innovation and the digital transition.This workshop aims to explore untapped AI potential to boost domestic tech, economic efficiency, and competitiveness, while respecting rights. Panelists will discuss AI advancements for EU policy recommendations in the future, driven by their daily experiences. How can ethics by design (EU AI Act) encourage AI uptake by highlighting users' and beneficiaries' autonomy, agency and responsibility? To ensure socially responsible innovation, is algorithmic transparency adequately addressed via data transparency?

  • Territorial | Local and regional | National | EU/ European | Digital and ICT
  • Code: 10PW241685
  • Jacques Delors building, JDE 52

Speakers

Lucilla Sioli

  • Director of Artificial Intelligence Office (CNECT.A), European Commission

Moderator

Jens Zvirgzdgrauds

  • Sen. Policy Officer & Head of Section, EC Committee of the Regions

Practical information

When
Thu 10/10/2024, 09:30 - 11:00 CET
Where
Jacques Delors building, JDE 52
Type of partnership
Partnership
Format
CoR Political WorkShop
Theme
Smart and sustainable growth for regions
Language
English

Reporting

Session summary

1. Labour protection and ensuring equal access to supercomputing resources in every region.
2. Utilizing AI for faster translation and information processing.
3. Addressing high-risk AI applications in law enforcement and healthcare, acknowledging the potential harms AI can impose on people.
4. Developing more ethical AI systems and considering the economic opportunities AI presents.
5. Exploring ways AI can boost regional innovation and competitiveness.
6. Recognizing the importance of collaboration rather than competition between regions, particularly in the field of AI.
7. EU legislation, such as the AI Act, should be considered in a timely manner.
8. Investing in digital capabilities and scaling up vertical industries to attract funding and foster innovation.
9. Regions with AI in their Smart Specialization Strategies (S3) tend to attract more funding.
10. Regions can invest in digital capacities, compete vertically, and widen for spill-over effects to promote growth and productivity.

Quotes