Legislation
The MDIA Act
The MDIA Act provides for the establishment of the Malta Digital Innovation Authority. The Act aims to:
- Support the development and implementation of the guiding principles described in this Act,
- Promote consistent principles for the development of visions, skills and other qualities relating to innovative technology, and
- Exercise regulatory functions regarding innovative technology and related services and to provide for matters ancillary thereto or connected therewith.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The AI Act is the first-ever legal framework on AI, which addresses the risks of AI and positions Europe to play a leading role globally and provides AI developers and deployers with clear requirements and obligations regarding specific uses of AI. At the same time, the regulation seeks to reduce administrative and financial burdens for business, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law is the first-ever international legally binding treaty aimed at ensuring the respect of human rights, the rule of law and democracy legal standards in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems.
The treaty, which is also open to non-European countries, sets out a legal framework that covers the entire lifecycle of AI systems and addresses the risks they may pose, while promoting responsible innovation. The convention adopts a risk-based approach to the design, development, use, and decommissioning of AI systems, which requires carefully considering any potential negative consequences of using AI systems.
Council of Europe Framework Convention on AI and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law
Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Act strengthens the EU Agency for cybersecurity (ENISA) and establishes a cybersecurity certification framework for products and services.
The Cybersecurity Certification Regulations implement the requisites of the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2019/881 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on ENISA and on information and communications technology cybersecurity certification and repealing Regulation (EU) No 526/2013 (Cybersecurity Act).
Data Innovation and Governance
The Data Governance Act (Regulation (EU) 2022/868) is a cross-sectoral instrument that provides a framework to enhance trust in voluntary data sharing for the benefit of businesses and citizens.
The Data Governance Regulations implement the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2022/868 and provide the necessary clarity to all involved stakeholders as to which Governmental entities shall be responsible for the tasks imposed by the same regulations.
The Data Act is a comprehensive initiative to address the challenges and unleash the opportunities presented by data in the European Union, emphasising fair access and user rights, while ensuring the protection of personal data.
Innovative Technology Arrangements and Services (ITAS) Certification
The scope of the Innovative Technology Arrangements and Services (ITAS) Certification Regulations is to provide for a voluntary recognition framework for innovative technology arrangements and services and for innovative technology service providers, as shall be determined by the Authority for the purposes established in the Act, from time to time.