The German government is facing pressure to establish a national authority for artificial intelligence oversight after missing the deadline to notify the European Commission of its market surveillance authorities for AI Act compliance. Consumer organizations and regulators are urging the government to appoint a supervisory authority to ensure AI systems are transparent, explainable, and fair.
The lack of oversight has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with unsupervised AI, including manipulation of consumers and exploitation of individual weaknesses. The EU's AI Act requires member states to appoint national authorities to oversee AI systems, ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting citizens' rights.
The absence of a clear regulatory framework may hinder Germany's position as a hub for AI innovation, according to Thomas Fuchs, Hamburg data protection commissioner. The German government has announced plans to establish a supervisory regime for AI regulation, with the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) serving as the central authority.
Sector-specific authorities will oversee AI applications in areas like automotive and medical devices, streamlining responsibilities and avoiding duplication. German data protection authorities have published guidelines for AI development and operation, emphasizing transparency, explainability, and data minimization.
The government is working to establish a robust regulatory framework for AI, balancing innovation with consumer protection and ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
