“Simplifying” European AI Regulation: An Evidence-based White Paper

The White Paper “Simplifying European AI Regulation” offers an evidence-based contribution to the ongoing debate on how the European Union can make its AI governance framework more coherent and practical without weakening the protection of fundamental rights. The study analyzes how the AI Act interacts with existing European and sectoral regulations in areas such as finance, health and manufacturing, identifying opportunities to simplify and align these rules under the planned Digital Package. It emphasizes that simplification means clarification and harmonization rather than deregulation. Based on 15 expert interviews and an interdisciplinary workshop with stakeholders from business, academia and civil society, the White Paper outlines concrete policy options to strengthen the effectiveness and competitiveness of European AI regulation. These include clearer responsibilities along the AI value chain, better coordination of sectoral rules, more realistic implementation timelines and targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The findings form the foundation for a forthcoming extended study, to be published at the end of November 2025.