Netherlands Sets Up New Algorithms Regulator

The data protection authority in the Netherlands has been tasked with overseeing the responsible use of algorithms in the country.

A new unit has been established within the Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens (the AP) to lead the work, which will involve identifying and analysing cross-sector and overarching risks and effects of algorithms, optimising existing work that is ongoing in relation to the oversight of algorithms across sectors and within government, and developing guidance and other common standards on the use of algorithms.

The Dutch government has confirmed that it intends to clarify the longer-term goals and activities of the algorithm regulator later this year. Legislative reform may be on the agenda if the government decides the AP’s existing powers should be expanded.

Read more: Netherlands Asks Watchdog To Regulate Bias In Artificial Intelligence

The AP is already responsible for overseeing compliance with data protection law in the Netherlands, which includes addressing unlawful processing of personal data via artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The AP is to receive additional government funding to fulfil its expanded brief.

Amsterdam-based technology law expert Nienke Kingma of Pinsent Masons said: “A focus area for the AP will be strengthening the supervision of algorithms that process personal data unlawfully, with particular attention to promotion of transparency and risks of discrimination. The upcoming AI Regulation, currently being negotiated by European legislators, will only strengthen these elements and provide further concrete instruments and concepts that can be built on.”