Union AI testing support structures are official bodies designated by the European Commission to carry out specific evaluation tasks related to artificial intelligence systems within the EU, helping authorities ensure these technologies meet established safety and performance guidelines for the benefit of the public and consumers alike.
The European Commission is responsible for designating specific organizations to act as Union AI testing support structures, selecting those that can reliably perform technical evaluations, tests, and assessments of artificial intelligence systems in line with EU regulations, thereby maintaining quality and ensuring consistency across member states in AI testing.
These support structures primarily carry out activities listed in Article 21(6) of Regulation (EU) 2019/1020, focusing on testing and inspecting artificial intelligence systems; they also provide independent scientific or technical advice if requested by the AI Board, market surveillance authorities, or the European Commission to help make informed decisions.
Independent technical or scientific advice from Union AI testing support structures can be requested by several key groups: the AI Board, the European Commission itself, or market surveillance authorities, ensuring objective insights are available to assist these bodies in effectively carrying out their mandates concerning artificial intelligence.
