Introduction
The European Audiovisual Observatory has released a detailed report titled “AI in the Audiovisual Sector: Navigating the Current Legal Landscape,” which explores the development and associated risks of artificial intelligence (AI) within the cinema, TV [1], and streaming industries. The report, authored by European experts, delves into the legal [2], ethical [2], and economic challenges posed by AI technologies.
Description
The report addresses significant concerns linked to the adoption of AI technologies [1], including potential job losses [1], a decline in human creativity [1], threats to copyright and personality rights [1], erosion of journalistic integrity [1], and the risk of misinformation [1].
Focusing on the 27 member states of the Council of Europe that are also part of the EU [1], the report examines the existing legal frameworks governing AI use [1], particularly in relation to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the newly enacted AI Act [2]. It questions the adequacy of these regulations in light of rapid technological advancements and the complexities surrounding AI’s reliance on copyrighted content for training, as well as the legal intricacies of AI-generated derivative works [2].
The report identifies five major challenges posed by AI [2], including questions of authorship [2], liability [2], and transparency regarding AI-generated content [2]. It raises concerns about the attribution of AI-generated works to human creators and the potential infringement of existing copyrights [2], alongside implications for personality rights as AI technologies replicate voices and create digital doubles [2], posing new challenges for actors in protecting their image and voice rights [2].
The impact of AI on the labor market within the audiovisual sector is also a significant concern [2], with discussions on how AI is disrupting traditional roles and the responses from stakeholders such as trade unions and collective management organizations [2]. Additionally, the potential for AI to create and disseminate disinformation [2], including deepfakes and misleading content [2], is highlighted [2]. The report outlines current regulations aimed at combating disinformation and safeguarding media integrity [2], as well as the role of AI in fact-checking [2].
While acknowledging the innovative potential of AI for enhancing creativity and efficiency in the audiovisual industry [1], the report notes that the current regulatory landscape is fragmented [1], with many laws still in early development stages [1]. It discusses the regulatory gap and the extent to which existing legislation impacts AI systems in the industry [2], emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines as AI continues to evolve and influence creative processes and consumption models [2]. The effectiveness of these regulations in facilitating a beneficial and sustainable integration of AI into the sector remains uncertain [1].
Conclusion
The report underscores the profound impacts of AI on the audiovisual sector, highlighting both opportunities and challenges [2]. It emphasizes the need for robust legal and ethical frameworks to address the implications of AI on creativity, employment, and information integrity. As AI continues to evolve [2], its influence on the industry necessitates careful consideration to ensure a balanced and sustainable integration.
References
[1] https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/the-rollout-of-artificial-intelligence-in-europe-s-audiovisual-industries-is-causing-concern-in-the-sector
[2] https://www.obs.coe.int/en/web/observatoire/-/new-report-the-challenges-of-ai-for-the-audiovisual-sector-and-the-role-european-legislation-is-playing
