Europe’s stance on AI implementation is quite a lot more strict and regulated than other parts of the world, the AI Act 2025 is a good example of that.
I think it is very encouraging that the EU has taken such a responsible leadership position on privacy. Having a voice that pushes back against the tendency to implement AI without restraint is import, contrary to what one might see in a totalitarian regime. I sometimes wonder whether constantly counteracting an adversary with their own methods makes us equally culpable. We need to maintain a sense of dignity and humanity, and stand by principles that define who we are.
Of course, if adhering to these principles puts us at a strategic disadvantage, we must find ways to mitigate that risk. However, I believe this should not prevent us from upholding the fundamental values we consider essential to our society. There is interplay between societal and defence considerations, but they remain somewhat distinct. For instance, the military application of autonomous drones engaging other drones differs from civilian concerns about police profiling individuals based on visual data. Whilst these issues are related, it is crucial to continue the conversation and recognise that mass surveillance and restrictions on personal expression are not acceptable.