The AI Ethics Impact Group represents a significant step forward in the practical application of AI ethics. Established in 2019 by the VDE Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies and Bertelsmann Stiftung, this consortium aims to bridge the gap between theoretical ethical principles and their real-world implementation. The group's primary objective is to support the enforcement of European values, ensuring the protection of citizens across Europe. By developing labelling and specification frameworks, the AI Ethics Impact Group seeks to create transparency and comparability in the market, facilitating a straightforward implementation process that avoids unnecessary bureaucracy for companies.
One of the key achievements of the AI Ethics Impact Group is the publication of the report 'From Principles to Practice – An interdisciplinary framework to operationalise AI ethics'. This document, released in April 2020, outlines a comprehensive approach to embedding ethical considerations into AI development and deployment. The framework is designed to be accessible, enabling organizations and citizens across Europe and beyond to understand and communicate AI ethics effectively.
The consortium's work is supported by a diverse range of institutions, including the Algorithm Accountability Lab at TU Kaiserslautern, the High-Performance Computing Center Stuttgart, and the International Center for Ethics in the Sciences and Humanities, among others. This interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that the AI Ethics Impact Group's initiatives are grounded in a broad spectrum of expertise, enhancing their relevance and applicability.
Looking ahead, the AI Ethics Impact Group is committed to fostering a broad, implementation-oriented debate on AI ethics. By sharing their findings and engaging with stakeholders across various sectors, the group aims to drive the adoption of ethical AI practices that align with European values and contribute to the protection and empowerment of citizens.
