Brussels Sacrifices Privacy to Fuel AI Growth – POLITICO
Brussels is set to modify privacy regulations in a bid to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) growth. These proposed changes will allow AI firms to process sensitive data such as religious beliefs, ethnicity, and health information. This development aims to facilitate tech training and operations while grappling with existing privacy concerns.
Draft Changes to Data Protection Rules
The European Commission is preparing to introduce legislation that redefines what constitutes special category data. This data currently enjoys enhanced protections under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Additionally, the Commission plans to revise the criteria that determine personal data, potentially exempting some pseudonymized data from GDPR protections.
Reforming Cookie Banner Regulations
Part of the upcoming proposal includes adjustments to cookie banner regulations. The revised rules would equip website and app owners with better legal justifications for user tracking beyond mere consent. This change reflects the Commission’s intent to streamline data management practices in the digital landscape.
Upcoming Proposal Timeline
The official unveiling of this comprehensive package is scheduled for November 19. However, the proposal may undergo changes before it is finalized. Post-presentation, the draft will require approval from EU member states and lawmakers, who remain divided on privacy issues.
Divided Opinions among EU Lawmakers
Various EU countries have expressed differing views on these proposed changes. Nations such as Estonia, France, Austria, and Slovenia oppose the reworking of the GDPR. Conversely, Germany advocates for substantial revisions to support AI development, a position unusual for a country typically characterized by its stringent privacy laws.
- Estonia: Opposed to GDPR changes
- France: Firmly against revisions
- Austra: Opposes alterations
- Slovenia: Against changes
- Germany: Supports revisions to aid AI
Legal Certainty and AI Companies
Finnish lawmaker Aura Salla has voiced support for the proposals if implemented correctly. She believes these changes could offer legal certainty for AI companies. However, she stressed the importance of ensuring that the benefits accrue to European firms rather than solely benefiting large multinational corporations.
Concerns have also been raised about the implications of reopening the GDPR. Czech Greens lawmaker Markéta Gregorová expressed her surprise and concern, highlighting the need to prioritize fundamental rights over financial interests. This ongoing debate indicates a significant challenge as Europe seeks to balance innovation with privacy protections in its digital economy.
