29th Parliamentary-Intelligence Security Forum – Europe Before the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence
Mr. Miguel Ángel López Belde, Counselor for Digitalization, Intelligence, and Security of the Community of Madrid, spoke on “Europe Before the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence,” highlighting the responsibility of the public sector in leading AI adoption. He emphasized that AI should not be confined to labs or tech companies, as it is already embedded in public services and decision-making, and that its implementation must be guided by transparency, equity, and responsibility. He explained that in Madrid, AI is applied across healthcare, education, and citizen services. Examples include predictive systems for hospital resource planning, radiological analysis for early detection of lung cancer, and tools to prevent school dropouts. AI allows professionals to focus on essential tasks by automating repetitive work, which improves both efficiency and quality of service.
Mr. López Belde stressed that building citizens’ trust is essential for AI to reach its full potential. This involves ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for fundamental rights. AI systems are designed to reinforce democratic values, equality, and inclusion, without replacing human judgment in critical decisions. Ethical and auditing frameworks are in place to ensure AI aligns with societal expectations. He also addressed Europe’s technological leadership, noting that Madrid contributes to an ethical and inclusive digital development model. The region has established an AI cluster, an AI office, and initiatives under “Madrid for AI” that combine talent, infrastructure, and governance. Training programs, including AI courses for 100,000 students, aim to promote digital skills and social equality.
Mr. López Belde concluded by emphasizing that AI will profoundly transform societies and economies, and the public sector must guide these changes to ensure they are positive, ethical, and serve the common good. Madrid is committed to remaining innovative, open, and collaborative in this effort.
