US Vice President JD Vance strongly criticized the European Union‘s strict AI laws during the AI summit in Paris. According to Reuters, Vance cautioned that Europe’s approach to AI regulation may “strangle” the developing technology and impede its advancement.
“We believe that excessive regulation of the AI sector could kill a transformative industry,” Vance stated during his speech, per Reuters. “We feel very strongly that AI must remain free from ideological bias and that American AI will not be co-opted into a tool for authoritarian censorship.” According to Vance, strict EU laws like the Digital Services Act and GDPR are burdensome for smaller tech firms.
Concerns Over Content Moderation
Vance also criticized Europe’s content moderation approach, calling it “authoritarian censorship.” He stressed that protecting individuals is crucial, but limiting access to content deemed misinformation by governments is a different issue. He argued that this overreach in content moderation could undermine the free flow of information.
“Of course, we want to ensure the internet is a safe place, but it is one thing to prevent a predator from preying on a child on the internet, and it is something quite different to prevent a grown man or woman from accessing an opinion that the government thinks is misinformation,” Vance explained.
Vance Criticizes China Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
In his speech, Vance also appeared to raise concerns about the growing influence of authoritarian regimes, specifically referencing China. Vance warned about partnering with countries that could use AI to control information infrastructure, without naming the DeepSeek startup.
“From CCTV to 5G equipment, we’re all familiar with cheap tech in the marketplace that’s been heavily subsidised and exported by authoritarian regimes,” Vance said. “Partnering with them means chaining your nation to an authoritarian master that seeks to infiltrate, dig in and seize your information infrastructure.”
Also read: Macron Pledges to Reshape AI Regulation in Europe
JD Vance highlighted the US’ hands-off approach to AI, while European leaders, like Macron and von der Leyen, push for regulation. The European Union passed the first comprehensive AI regulation last year, focusing on ensuring AI development is safe and ethical.