Brussels, 24 April 2026 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how businesses operate, it is reshaping healthcare and revolutionising science. AI makes use of computer science to create systems capable of simulating human-like capabilities such as reasoning, problem-solving and learning. Algorithms are applied to analyse large volumes of data to identify complex patterns and solve complex problems. Among other things, AI systems can automate repetitive tasks, reduce human error and process data faster. As AI develops further, it can offer even more benefits to citizens and businesses across Europe. The European approach to AI aims to position Europe as a leading hub for human-centric and reliable AI. This ambition is underpinned by substantial investments, as the Commission is investing €200 billion to boost AI development in Europe including €1 billion annually for Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programmes. As Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen said: “In today’s fast moving, interconnected world, AI is no longer ‘just’ a competitive advantage; it’s a necessity to be competitive and to close the innovation gap.” In 2024, the EU put in place the world’s first comprehensive legal framework on AI, the AI Act , setting the standards for trustworthy and human-centric AI. To help ensure its smooth rollout, the Commission also launched the AI Act Service Desk and Single Information Platform . Moreover, the European AI Office was established to ensure a coherent implementation and enforcement of the AI Act, but also to promote the development and adoption of AI technologies in Europe. Following the 2024 Draghi report which pointed out that the AI regulatory environment places too many constraints on innovation, the Commission proposed the Digital Omnibus regulations at the end of 2025 to revise and simplify Europe’s digital rulebook. To further ensure the EU’s position as a global