Comment by European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS)

Ideas for a centralised approach in developing the European AI landscape run the risk of undermining the wider goals of the EU's AI strategy. While meeting no immediate need – AI research does not require access to centralised, expensive and unique physical facilities and infrastructures in the way that fields such as particle physics might require – a central research body risks isolating AI research from the sectors, research communities and citizens that it should serve. Faced with a situation where a centralised site in a single member country absorbs large parts of future EU funding, but not the talent (which is the most likely outcome), AI talent currently working at the most dynamic European centres of AI excellence may even consider moving to top AI hotspots overseas. A multi-centric laboratory with strong institutions in all parts of Europe will generate real innovation for Europe, best leverage Europe’s cultural diversity, and integrate European values in the development of future technology. This will ensure that Europe does not become a mere consumer of AI technology developed elsewhere, building on other values, but instead builds a genuine “AI made in Europe”.