Summary

France, Germany, and Italy have reached an agreement on regulating generative AI and large language models (LLMs), aiming to accelerate AI oversight negotiations at the European Union level. The joint policy paper focuses on mandatory self-regulation for generative AI foundation model developers through ethical codes of conduct and the provision of model cards. No penalties will initially be imposed for violations, but a sanctions-based enforcement system could be introduced later.

Introduction

The governments of France, Germany, and Italy have issued a joint policy paper outlining their agreement on regulating generative AI and large language models (LLMs). Their aim is to accelerate AI oversight negotiations at the European Union level and establish mandatory self-regulation for generative AI foundation model developers through ethical codes of conduct.

Main Points

The agreement emphasizes the need to regulate AI use-cases rather than the underlying technology. The countries propose that the EU’s AI Act should focus on governing AI applications while avoiding stifling innovation and untested regulatory norms. Makers of foundation models would be required to provide model cards, which are datasheets explaining an AI model’s capabilities, limitations, and other important details for deployment. The agreement suggests that an AI governance body could help define best practices for model cards.

Initially, no penalties will be imposed for violations of the self-regulatory code. However, after an evaluation period, a sanctions-based enforcement system may be introduced. The joint paper states that the inherent risks lie in the application of AI systems rather than in the technology itself. The model cards are intended to include relevant information that enables understanding of an AI model’s functioning, capabilities, and limits, based on industry best practices.

Conclusion

The agreement between France, Germany, and Italy on AI regulation aligns with global efforts to strike a balance between capturing AI’s economic benefits and mitigating risks such as bias. It could also help shape the EU’s AI Act negotiations between the European Commission, Parliament, and Council. The consensus reflects Europe’s influence in establishing principled global norms for emerging technologies while supporting innovation.