AI Governance Framework for municipalities

A new AI governance framework has been released, specifically tailored to assist European municipalities in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. This initiative provides a much-needed roadmap for local governments to adopt AI responsibly, fostering innovation while upholding fundamental rights and values within their communities. The framework is designed to promote digital sovereignty by encouraging municipalities to make informed decisions about the technology they implement, including their source. The framework outlines practical steps for municipalities to consider at each stage of the AI lifecycle, from procurement and development to deployment and monitoring. It addresses critical aspects such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and ethical considerations in line with GDPR requirements. The guidelines are built to be user-friendly, promoting clarity and helping municipalities across Europe effectively and safely adopt new AI systems. The target audience includes local government officials, IT departments, and anyone involved in the decision-making process concerning AI solutions within municipalities. This initiative will significantly influence how cities and towns across Europe integrate AI into services like public safety, urban planning, and citizen engagement. By prioritizing ethical AI implementation, this framework contributes to building public trust and ensuring that these advanced technologies serve the best interests of European citizens. This initiative marks a significant step towards establishing a common European approach to AI governance at the local level. It comes as the EU continues to develop broader AI regulations, showcasing how European values can shape technological development and support digital sovereignty.