Eu Launches Groundbreaking Initiative To Foster Trustworthy Ai Across Europe

The European Union continues to strengthen its regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, with a new EU-funded initiative taking center stage. CERTAIN (Certification for Ethical and Regulatory Transparency in Artificial Intelligence) aims to drive ethical AI compliance across the continent by developing tools and frameworks that promote transparency, sustainability, and trustworthiness in AI technologies.

Launched in January 2025, CERTAIN is led by Idemia Identity & Security France in collaboration with a consortium of 19 partners from ten European countries, including Austria’s St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (UAS). This project has the potential to serve as a blueprint for global AI governance, addressing crucial regulatory and ethical challenges.

Senior Researcher at the St. Pölten UAS’ Institute of IT Security Research and project manager for CERTAIN, Sebastian Neumaier, emphasizes the initiative’s goal is to develop practical solutions that help companies navigate complex AI regulations while strengthening confidence in AI technologies.

“In a rapidly evolving landscape, it’s essential to establish user-friendly tools and guidelines that simplify even the most intricate AI rules,” Neumaier says. “Our objective is to bridge the gap between regulation and innovation, empowering businesses to leverage AI responsibly while fostering public trust.”

The project focuses on creating industry-wide standards for data sharing and AI development, promoting interoperability across Europe. This effort not only aids in compliance but also unlocks new opportunities for innovation, driving sustainable economic growth.

The emphasis on sustainability is particularly noteworthy, as AI technologies come with significant environmental challenges – such as high energy consumption and resource-intensive data processing. By promoting energy-efficient AI systems and advocating for eco-friendly methods of data management, CERTAIN aligns with the EU’s Green Deal goals and ensures that AI development prioritizes the health of the planet.

A collaborative approach to fostering dialogue among stakeholders is another unique aspect of CERTAIN. The project team at St. Pölten UAS engages in active exchange with researchers, tech companies, policymakers, and end-users to co-develop tools, standards, and solutions.

This practice-oriented approach extends beyond product development, as CERTAIN also serves as a central authority for informing stakeholders about legal, ethical, and technical matters related to AI and certification. By maintaining open channels of communication, the project ensures its outcomes are both practical and widely adopted.

The multidisciplinary and international consortium, including leading academic institutions, industrial giants, and research organizations, positions CERTAIN to shape the future of AI in Europe. As the EU’s AI Act edges closer to implementation, guidelines and tools like those developed under CERTAIN will be pivotal in ensuring compliance with ethical AI regulations.

In an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, initiatives like CERTAIN play a critical role in positioning Europe as a global leader in responsible AI development.