Artificial intelligence is changing the world faster than we can imagine, and it cannot be avoided. It brings great benefits, but also new risks we must prepare for. The key is open debate and sensible rules that support innovation while protecting society.
Regulation with common sense, not a brake
The speaker warned that the era of AI deployment resembles an arms race: anyone who hesitates will be left behind. The European Union has introduced the first framework (AI Act), but growing bureaucracy may slow the deployment of technologies. There is a risk that the USA, Asian countries, and others who approach innovation more boldly will overtake us.
The solution lies more in principles and frameworks than in detailed regulation, which always lags behind reality. We need clear moral, technical, and safety rules, and strict oversight in cases of misuse. The goal should be an environment in which development can move forward naturally.
Benefits in practice and an opportunity for Slovakia
AI is already helping in transport, security, and healthcare, where it can interpret CT, MRI, or X-ray images with high accuracy. If legislation today requires two doctors for one diagnosis, in the future the combination "doctor + AI" may be equivalent. The state should not wait for the private sector: AI can streamline the work of government offices, draft responses and permits, and increase the efficiency of spending.
Slovakia has the potential to be a pilot country for new solutions, thanks also to fast mobile internet and a good "test" market size. In 2025, Bratislava will host the OECD global education forum with a strong AI agenda and another international event on artificial intelligence. Language inclusion is also important: for key applications, the availability of Slovak must be guaranteed so that no one is left out.
Risks, limits, and moral responsibility
Experience with social networks shows what a different regime of rules in the "digital world" leads to: anonymity and impunity have fueled hate and attacks. With AI, we must avoid the same mistake and set clear, enforceable norms similar to those that apply in offline life. Protection against misuse is an integral part of innovation.
The most sensitive areas are military and security applications, autonomous weapons, as well as surveillance systems and "social scoring" that can restrict access to services. Therefore, it is necessary to seek a balance between benefit and risk and to make decisions based on ethical criteria as well. We should not fear technologies; rather, we should adapt to them and actively shape their use — this is also how Slovakia can strengthen its position on the map of global AI.
