Source: European Commission

This article provides a detailed overview of the European Commission’s event, held in Brussels on September 18, 2023, focusing on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and data ecosystems, with a special emphasis on data ownership, data use, and the legal and ethical implications of these issues. As AI technologies become increasingly dependent on vast amounts of data, questions surrounding who owns the data, how it is used, and the rights associated with it are becoming central to the development of AI governance frameworks in the European Union (EU).

The event, part of the EU's ongoing efforts to regulate AI and data ecosystems, brought together experts, policymakers, technologists, and legal professionals to discuss how data is being leveraged by AI systems and the associated legal challenges. One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the complexity of defining data ownership in a digital environment where data is constantly being generated, shared, and re-used across multiple platforms and applications.

The article explains that traditional concepts of ownership are being challenged in the digital age. Unlike physical property, data can be copied, shared, and modified without losing its original value. This makes it difficult to apply conventional ownership frameworks to data, especially when multiple stakeholders contribute to the creation or collection of that data. The event highlighted the need for a new legal framework that addresses the unique characteristics of data and provides clarity on issues such as data rights, access, and control.

In addition to ownership, the event focused heavily on how data is used within AI systems. AI models require large datasets to function effectively, but the use of personal or proprietary data raises concerns about privacy and ethical responsibility. The article notes that the EU is working to balance the need for innovation with the protection of individual rights. New regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the upcoming AI Act are designed to address these concerns by imposing stringent requirements on data usage and AI development.

Another critical issue discussed was the concept of data ecosystems, where data flows freely between different entities, including businesses, governments, and public institutions. While data ecosystems can drive innovation and economic growth, they also raise questions about data governance, including who is responsible for ensuring that data is used ethically and legally. The article emphasizes that building trust in data ecosystems is essential for their success, and this requires transparent rules about data ownership, consent, and accountability.

The article concludes by stressing the importance of continued dialogue between policymakers, technologists, and legal experts to ensure that AI and data ecosystems are governed in a way that promotes innovation while protecting fundamental rights. The EU is positioning itself as a global leader in this area, and its regulatory frameworks will likely influence AI and data governance on a global scale.