In Short:
European governments are uncomfortable with the concentration of power in Silicon Valley, making European companies downstream customers importing services and technology in exchange for money and data sent to the US. There are concerns about a growing gap in values, beliefs, and AI sovereignty. The EU has issues with regulating AI to protect privacy while supporting European AI companies to compete globally. Europe is investing in talent, computing power, and capital to boost its AI presence.
Concerns over AI Power Dynamics in Europe
The concentration of power in the AI sector has raised concerns among European governments. European companies are becoming downstream customers of the future, importing cutting-edge services and technology in exchange for money and data flowing to Silicon Valley. This issue has gained urgency due to perceived differences in values between Silicon Valley and the average EU citizen and their representatives, as well as the significant role that AI is expected to play in the next technological revolution.
European Efforts to Keep Pace
European fears of falling behind in AI technology predate developments like ChatGPT. In 2018, the European Commission issued an AI plan calling for the development of competitive “AI made in Europe” to rival the US and China. Despite the desire for control over technology, achieving AI sovereignty remains a complex and evolving concept in the region.
The EU’s AI Act, which is expected to become law this summer, focuses heavily on regulating potential harms and privacy issues associated with AI. Some member states, such as France, have expressed concerns that stringent regulations could impede the growth of their AI companies aspiring to become European alternatives to Silicon Valley giants like OpenAI.
Challenges in AI Development in Europe
European leaders, like French finance minister Bruno Le Maire, emphasize the need for Europe to prioritize innovation in AI before implementing regulatory frameworks. The EU aims to position itself as a leader in trustworthy AI adoption, but challenges persist in access to computing power and capital to fuel AI projects.
While data and AI talent are present in Europe, efforts are underway to enhance computing resources through initiatives like the “AI Factories” program. However, securing the necessary capital for large-scale AI endeavors remains a significant hurdle, with significant disparities in private investment between the US and Europe.
