Poland Establishes Key AI Commission to Regulate and Implement EU AI Act

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Poland Establishes Key AI Commission to Regulate and Implement EU AI Act

Poland is on the verge of creating a crucial new regulatory body, the Commission for the Development and Security of Artificial Intelligence (KRIBSI). This independent commission is poised to play a central role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence within Poland, overseeing its development, and ensuring compliance with emerging European Union regulations, most notably the EU AI Act.

The establishment of KRIBSI marks a significant step forward, resolving prior disputes between Poland’s Ministry of Digitization and Ministry of Finance concerning its oversight. Dariusz Standerski, Deputy Head of the Ministry of Digitization, recently provided key details, including the projected timeline for its formation.

Resolving the AI Commission Oversight Stalemate

For some time, the creation of the AI commission was a point of contention between the Ministry of Digitization and the Ministry of Finance. The Ministry of Digitization advocated for the commission to be overseen by an office that also functions as a state legal entity. In contrast, the Ministry of Finance, led by Andrzej Domański, proposed placing it under the authority of the Office of Electronic Communications (UKE).

Ultimately, a compromise was reached: KRIBSI will operate as an independent body, while administratively supported by the Ministry of Digitization. Deputy Minister Dariusz Standerski highlighted that this solution is expected to generate substantial savings, potentially reaching up to $2.25 million USD in its very first year of operation.

Structure and Expert Membership of KRIBSI

The chairperson of the new commission will be appointed by the Sejm (the Lower House of the Polish Parliament), with the necessary consent from the Senat (the Upper House).

KRIBSI’s composition will draw upon a diverse pool of experts from various key national institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to AI regulation. These institutions include:

  • Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK): Responsible for protecting consumer rights and promoting fair competition in the market.
  • Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF): Oversees the financial market, including banking, insurance, and capital markets.
  • National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT): Regulates the broadcasting sector.
  • Office of Electronic Communications (UKE): Regulates telecommunications and postal services, managing frequency spectrum and numbering resources.

Core Responsibilities of the New AI Commission

As its name suggests, the Commission for the Development and Security of Artificial Intelligence will be tasked with regulating all matters pertaining to AI within Poland. A crucial aspect of its mandate will be the implementation of the European Union’s groundbreaking AI Act.

Understanding the EU AI Act: This pioneering regulatory framework aims to ensure that AI systems developed and used within the EU are safe, transparent, non-discriminatory, and environmentally sound. It categorizes AI systems based on their potential risk, imposing stricter requirements on higher-risk applications. KRIBSI’s role will be to translate these broad EU guidelines into specific national policies and ensure their effective enforcement across Poland.

Timeline for KRIBSI’s Establishment

Deputy Minister Standerski indicated that the legislative bill for the commission’s establishment is expected to be deliberated this month. The optimistic outlook suggests that the full legislative process could commence as early as March or April.

Ensuring True Independence

Despite being administratively supported by the Ministry of Digitization, Deputy Minister Standerski emphasized that KRIBSI will be granted full independence under the new regulations. He assured that this arrangement is designed to prevent any perception of merely “apparent autonomy,” ensuring the commission can operate without undue influence and fulfill its mandate impartially.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is KRIBSI?

KRIBSI stands for the Commission for the Development and Security of Artificial Intelligence. It is a new, independent Polish regulatory body established to oversee AI development and application within the country.

What is the main goal of KRIBSI?

Its primary goal is to regulate AI issues in Poland and to facilitate the national implementation of the European Union’s AI Act, ensuring AI systems are developed and used responsibly and safely.

How will KRIBSI implement the EU AI Act?

KRIBSI will translate the general principles and requirements of the EU AI Act into specific national regulations and guidelines. It will also be responsible for monitoring compliance and enforcing these rules for AI systems operating in Poland.

Who will lead KRIBSI?

The chairperson of KRIBSI will be appointed by the Sejm (Polish Parliament’s Lower House) with the consent of the Senat (Upper House).

Why was there a dispute over its establishment?

There was an initial disagreement between the Ministry of Digitization and the Ministry of Finance regarding which ministry or body should have direct oversight of the commission. This was resolved with KRIBSI being an independent body administratively supported by the Ministry of Digitization.

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