European Commission launches consultation on data use in AI development
The Commission invites academia, researchers, and industry to provide their feedback to the consultation by 18 July.
The European Commission has initiated a public consultation to gather insights on the utilisation of data in Artificial Intelligence (AI), aiming to inform its forthcoming Data Union Strategy. This strategy is a pivotal component of the EU’s broader ambition to position itself as a global leader in AI development and governance.
Objectives of the data union strategy
The Data Union Strategy seeks to establish a cohesive framework that ensures the availability of high-quality, interoperable, and diverse datasets essential for AI. By harmonising policies, infrastructures, and legal instruments, the strategy aims to facilitate trusted cross-border data flows and support the creation of common data spaces interconnected with the AI ecosystem.
Announced by President Ursula von der Leyen, the strategy underscores the EU’s commitment to harnessing data’s potential to bolster generative AI development, thereby reinforcing Europe’s status as an ‘AI continent.’
Call for contributions
The Commission invites stakeholders, including academia, researchers, and industry professionals, to contribute their perspectives on data usage in AI, simplification of data-related regulations, and international data flows. Feedback from this consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the Data Union Strategy. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses by 18 July.
Integration with the AI continent action plan
The Data Union Strategy is integral to the AI continent action plan, launched in April 2025, which outlines the EU’s roadmap to enhance AI capabilities across the region. This plan encompasses initiatives such as expanding computing infrastructure, fostering AI skills, simplifying regulatory frameworks, and promoting AI adoption in strategic sectors.
A notable aspect of the plan includes the establishment of AI Factories and Gigafactories, designed to provide the necessary infrastructure and resources for developing advanced AI models. These facilities aim to support the EU’s goal of achieving technological sovereignty and competitiveness in the global AI landscape.
