Major EU Policy Developments on Liability for Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Emerging Digital Technologies: 2015 to 2018

This chapter traces the evolution of the EU liability policy on Artificial Intelligence, discussing the main liability-related policy documents and measures which set the tone for strengthening the EU AI ecosystem. It outlines the European Parliament’s initial (2017) approach to artificial intelligence and robotics, which asked the European Commission (‘Commission’) to present a legislative proposal laying down a set of civil law rules and ethical aspects on robotics and artificial intelligence. The chapter also presents the Commission’s vision of dealing with AI liability issues, offering, inter alia, some preliminary insights as to the policy options and what the forthcoming EU liability framework for AI might include. As it is explained, it is imperative to ensure that AI is developed and applied in an appropriate liability framework which promotes innovation whereas, at the same time, guarantees a high level of consumer protection and ensures that injured parties are remedied/compensated efficiently.