The Evolution of the Perception of Artificial Intelligence in the EU: The Case of Judicial Administration

Abstract

Efficiency of judicial administration is one of the priorities of justice systems, it acts as a means to achieve effective administration of justice and wider access to courts through minimum spending of resources. One element associated with a satisfactory level of court efficiency is the integra- tion and use of digital technologies by judicial staff. Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a superior al- ternative to traditional digital technologies due to its use of Machine Learning (ML), to achieve desig- nated goals. This article will trace the evolution EU policymakers’ understanding of AI in the context of EU Member States’ courts integrating AI systems to efficiently automate their judicial administration. By comparing AI definitions provided by EU bodies, specifically referencing the proposed AI Act, this article highlights the commonly accepted characteristics of AI. Additionally, it examines arguments put forth by leading computer scientists regarding the interpretation of “intelligence” in artificial artifacts. We will find that AI systems are perceived as systems employing ML and logic and knowledge-based approaches that are capable of mimicking basic human cognitive functions to autonomously automate manual tasks. These findings will be followed by remarks on the necessary steps for the integration of AI-based applications in EU justice systems.