Liability for Disruptive Technologies Using Data: Is EU Legal Intervention Needed?

• Jurisdiction: European Union
• Year: 2021
• Author: Herbert Zech

Speaker

Herbert Zech is professor of civil law, technology law and IT Law at Humboldt University Berlin and director at the Weizenbaum Institute. Previously, he had been professor of life sciences law and intellectual property law at Basel University. Among others, his current fields of research are legal issues concerning big data and artificial intelligence.

Topic

This e-presentation will delve into the intricate world of AI (artificial intelligence) and its liability implications. The aim is to shed light on the technical background and explore the ongoing debates surrounding this groundbreaking technology. It will provide an in-depth overview of the different liability regimes currently existing in the European Union (EU). By understanding these legal frameworks, we can gain insights into how AI liability is perceived and addressed within the region.

The debate on AI liability is dynamic and multifaceted, involving stakeholders from governments, academia, industries, and civil society. We will examine the various perspectives and concerns raised by these stakeholders. Ethical considerations, the potential for bias in AI algorithms, and questions about transparency and accountability are just a few of the crucial topics we will explore.

As we move forward, we will reflect on the feasibility and relevance of adapting existing liability frameworks to encompass AI technologies. Striking the right balance between encouraging innovation and safeguarding individuals' rights and interests is of utmost importance.

Moreover, this presentation will emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between legal experts, technologists, policymakers, and ethicists. Finding comprehensive solutions requires a collective effort to ensure that AI's potential benefits are maximized while minimizing its potential risks.

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