ODI tells EU to balance AI safeguards with innovation promotion | Computer Weekly

ODI tells EU to balance AI safeguards with innovation promotion | Computer Weekly

The Open Data Institute advocates for a European policy framework that prioritizes people, transparency, and trust in the era of artificial intelligence. By proposing six core principles, including robust data infrastructure and open data as a foundational element, the organization aims to guide regulators in balancing innovation with democratic values. This approach seeks to create a digital governance model that fosters economic competitiveness while ensuring that digital reforms protect citizens' rights and maintain public confidence in emerging technologies. A critical focus of this manifesto is the necessity of an inclusive and equitable data ecosystem that actively mitigates bias and power imbalances. The ODI emphasizes that high-impact AI applications in sectors like healthcare and climate require broad access to data and skills, particularly for smaller enterprises that are often excluded. By supporting initiatives that democratize access, the framework ensures that data infrastructure serves as a public utility rather than a gatekeeper, enabling diverse participation and reducing inequality in the digital economy. This guidance is highly relevant to open data because it explicitly positions open data infrastructure as essential for building trust and enabling secure AI development. The arguments highlight how accessible, well-governed data allows for independent oversight and reduces reliance on opaque systems, which is vital for maintaining democratic integrity. Ultimately, the manifesto reinforces that open data is not merely a technical standard but a societal imperative for creating resilient, fair, and innovative digital environments across Europe.

Source: computerweekly.com
Published on 2025-08-14