Source: Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland

Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland announces that the national implementation of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) will officially commence at the beginning of 2026. The Finnish Parliament has approved new legislation defining the powers and responsibilities of the national authorities tasked with supervising AI systems. Under this framework, the Office of the Data Protection Ombudsman will serve as the primary supervisory authority, overseeing the use of AI in areas involving high risks to fundamental rights and personal data protection.

The new laws grant authorities the power to conduct inspections, request documentation, and issue orders to halt the use of non-compliant AI systems. Additionally, the legislation establishes a system for administrative fines, which can be imposed on companies that fail to adhere to the EU AI Act’s strict transparency and safety standards. Finland aims to ensure a balanced approach that protects citizens while supporting the ethical development and deployment of AI technologies within the European Single Market.

Furthermore, several other sector-specific authorities, such as the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom), will play specialized roles in monitoring AI applications within their respective fields. This coordinated effort is designed to prevent regulatory gaps and ensure that high-risk AI applications, particularly those used in critical infrastructure or law enforcement, are subject to rigorous oversight. The Finnish government emphasizes that these measures are essential for maintaining trust in digital services and fostering a competitive AI ecosystem.