AI REGULATIONS IN CZECHIA

The Czech Republic is making significant strides in Artificial Intelligence (AI) through strategic initiatives aimed at fostering innovation while ensuring ethical and legal compliance. Launched in May 2019, the National AI Strategy is a comprehensive framework developed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MIT) and extends until 2035. This strategy, part of the Digital Economy and Society (DES) plan within the Digital Czech Republic programme, seeks to position the country as a leader in AI innovation. Its key objectives include advancing AI science, research, and development by financing investments that enhance the AI ecosystem, and integrating AI into industry, services, and public administration to boost economic growth and competitiveness.

In addition to focusing on technological advancements, the strategy emphasizes enhancing human capital through education and lifelong learning. This approach addresses the impact of AI on the labor market and social systems, ensuring that legal, ethical, and societal aspects, including consumer protection and security, are upheld. The strategy also aims to foster international cooperation to drive global progress in AI, reflecting a commitment to a balanced approach to technological development.

Supporting the National AI Strategy are several crucial initiatives. The AI Observatory and Forum, launched in 2020, is a collaborative effort involving the Institute of State and Law of the Czech Academy of Sciences (ISL), the Office of the Government, and MIT. This platform monitors AI’s regulatory and ethical framework and formulates recommendations for government policy, ensuring a trustworthy and human-centric development of AI technologies.

Additionally, the National Strategy of Open Access to Scientific Information and Data, implemented from 2017 to 2020, focuses on enhancing transparency and accessibility in research by defining clear guidelines for open access to scientific publications and data. This strategy supports the development of a digital ecosystem for AI and strengthens national AI policies. Another significant initiative is the Catalog of Autonomous Vehicle Testing Areas, started in 2020 and set to continue until 2025. Led by the Transport Research Centre in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport and the State Transport Infrastructure Fund, this project aims to create an attractive environment for the development, research, and testing of autonomous vehicles, contributing to advancements in automotive technology and ensuring safety on public roads.