A grand entrance without a blueprint: a critical analysis of the Right to Explanation in Article 86 of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act

Article

Nnawuchi, U. and George, C. 2024. A grand entrance without a blueprint: a critical analysis of the Right to Explanation in Article 86 of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act. AIRe – Journal of AI Law and Regulation. 1 (4), pp. 402-419. https://doi.org/10.21552/aire/2024/4/6
TypeArticle
TitleA grand entrance without a blueprint: a critical analysis of the Right to Explanation in Article 86 of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act
AuthorsNnawuchi, U. and George, C.
Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already a transformative force across several industries, influencing decisions that significantly impact individuals and societies. In response to the growing need for transparency and accountability in AI systems, the European Union has introduced the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act), the first comprehensive regulation on AI by any regulator. This regulation, initially proposed in 2021, was updated in 2024 to expressly establish a right to explanation of AI systems in Article 86. This right aims to ensure that individuals affected by the output of AI algorithms can request an explanation to understand the rationale behind those decisions, thereby fostering trust and accountability. However, the current formulation of this right, as outlined in Article 86, has faced criticisms concerning its lack of specificity and operational clarity. This paper critiques Article 86, comparing it with analogous provisions in the General Data Protection Regulation 2016 and discussing its limitations, and implications for stakeholders.

KeywordsAI Act; GDPR; right to explanation; machine learning; automated decision-making
Sustainable Development Goals9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Middlesex University ThemeSustainability
Research GroupAspects of Law and Ethics Related to Technology group
PublisherLexxion
JournalAIRe – Journal of AI Law and Regulation
ISSN
Electronic2942-4372
Publication dates
PrintDec 2024
Publication process dates
AcceptedNov 2024
Deposited06 Jan 2025
Output statusPublished
Web address (URL)https://aire.lexxion.eu/article/AIRE/2024/4/6
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.21552/aire/2024/4/6
LanguageEnglish
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