Generative artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming numerous facets of European society, from health and education to industry and public administration. According to a new study by the Joint Research Centre, European Union institutions and policymakers must balance accelerating adoption with a clear-eyed approach to risk. The report highlights that while Europe is a leader in generative artificial intelligence research, publishing over 3,000 papers in 2023 alone and ranking second globally in output, the continent lags far behind the United States and China in patents, commercialization, and venture capital investment. Europe accounts for 7% of global generative artificial intelligence activity, compared to China´s dominant 60% and the US share of 12%, reflecting a significant funding gap for European startups and limited patent filings, which represent just 2% of the global total.
The study details sector-specific impacts, pointing to substantial productivity gains in high-skill professions. In healthcare, generative artificial intelligence enables personalized medicine, early diagnosis, and a more integrated approach to fragmented medical information, with around 10% of EU generative artificial intelligence research and innovation activity focused in this sector. The education sector benefits from customized learning experiences, but faces challenges requiring new policy frameworks and competences. Manufacturing is witnessing the rise of agentic artificial intelligence, a model that facilitates autonomous production management, process automation, supply chain optimization, and reduction of waste, driving efficiency and the creation of new business models.
Labour markets are changing as generative artificial intelligence disproportionately affects skilled professions such as doctors, teachers, and engineers. The demand for transversal skills—including critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and technical skills related to maintaining artificial intelligence systems—is rising. The report underscores uneven impact across social groups: generative artificial intelligence can provide great benefits for children and those facing language or ability barriers, but also raises serious concerns over manipulation, privacy, and exposure to misinformation. AI systems can reinforce existing biases; notably, European studies found evidence of gender bias in financial decision-making and recruitment, typically disadvantaging women.
Strategic policy responses recommended by the Joint Research Centre include prioritizing transparency, accountability, and diversity in generative artificial intelligence development, regular auditing, and investment in education and training to promote media literacy and critical thinking. The European Commission´s recent AI Continent Action Plan sets the stage for these challenges, aiming to make Europe a global leader in artificial intelligence while safeguarding fundamental values. Additional strategies, such as the forthcoming Apply AI Strategy, are expected to accelerate adoption across both public and private sectors, linking efforts with specialized actions in AI for science and other strategic domains.
