The Malta Sociological Association notes the European Commission's draft guidelines on the classification of high-risk Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems and recognises their importance in promoting trustworthy, human-centred AI across the European Union.
The MSA recommends that Social Impact Assessment (SIA) be incorporated into the classification and assessment of high-risk AI systems. While technical performance, safety, and legal compliance are essential, AI systems may also generate significant social risks, including impacts on employment, inequality, education, healthcare, public services, privacy, social inclusion, democratic participation, and public trust. A systematic assessment of these social impacts would strengthen evidence-informed, transparent, and socially responsible governance.
The MSA also recommends that the European Commission complement regulatory measures with comprehensive public education and outreach initiatives to improve AI literacy among citizens, organisations, businesses, educators, and public authorities. Greater awareness of both the opportunities and the risks associated with AI is essential for informed participation, responsible use, and public confidence in these technologies.
Embedding SIA alongside technical and legal assessments, while investing in public education and engagement, would contribute to a more accountable, inclusive, and socially sustainable framework for the development and deployment of AI across the EU.
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