National Mapping, Cadastral and Land Registration Authorities (NMCAs) expertise in providing reliable, authoritative data has a significant part to play in establishing Europe as a global hub for trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Responding to the Commission’s proposed new AI Regulation published today, EuroGeographics, which represents the European NMCAs, says that its members’ extensive experience in the production and management of trusted data can help foster trust in these new technologies.

“We are pleased to see AI on the European agenda and welcome a regulatory framework that enhances trust. Official, authoritative data from National Mapping, Cadastral and Land Registration Authorities is a key component for an AI model based on trust and excellence, giving citizens the confidence to embrace technologies, while also encouraging businesses to develop them,” says Léa Bodossian, Secretary General and Executive Director, EuroGeographics.

“Our members produce and make available data to feed AI services and businesses, whilst also using these new technologies to process geospatial information and increase the efficiency of their quality assurance and management – the calling card of NMCA data.” 

“NMCAs have a reputation for providing data that people can rely on when making critical decisions, and in turn the public trusts them to keep their data secure and act in their interest above all else. AI therefore provides many opportunities for NMCAs to contribute to the public good, not least in sharing their extensive experience and expertise to develop AI tools that establish trustworthiness but also in serving the European public interest by contributing to European data sovereignty.”

“We warmly welcome any initiative that strengthens public trust in data, particularly in high-risk areas for which members hold responsibility, such as critical infrastructure and essential services, and look forward to engaging with policy makers to realise the vision of Europe as a global hub for trustworthy AI.”

EuroGeographics is an international not-for-profit organisation (AISBL/ IVZW under Belgian Law. BCE registration:  833 607 112) and the membership association for the European National Mapping, Cadastral and Land Registry Authorities. It currently brings together members from 46 countries, covering the whole of geographical Europe.