Stricter Rules, No Supervisor: Belgium Lags on EU AI Legislation

Belgium faces a regulatory gap as the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) advances, with a crucial phase beginning August 2. Despite the new rules taking effect, the country has yet to officially appoint a supervisor responsible for ensuring compliance.

The upcoming phase mandates transparency from companies using AI. This includes clearly labeling AI-generated images and disclosing when AI systems are employed in sensitive processes, such as evaluating loan applications. The goal is to ensure citizens are aware when they are interacting with AI or when AI influences decisions affecting them.

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If an online real estate site uses an AI image instead of a real photo? Then from now on, it must state that the image was made or edited with AI.

Currently, Belgian citizens who wish to file a complaint regarding AI use have no dedicated authority to turn to, leaving the court system as their only option. While the AI Act aims to foster safe and fair AI development and use across the EU, Belgium's delay in establishing a supervisory body, a requirement for all member states by August 2 of the previous year, leaves a significant enforcement void. This situation mirrors that of other EU nations, including the Netherlands, highlighting a broader challenge in implementing the new AI governance framework.

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The regulation is necessary, but in Belgium, there is currently no officially appointed supervisor.