To give women academics and others well-deserved—and overdue—time in the spotlight, TechCrunch is launching a series of interviews focusing on notable women who have contributed to the AI revolution. We’ll be publishing several pieces throughout the year as the AI boom continues, highlighting essential work that often goes unrecognized. Read more profiles here.
Eva Maydell is a Bulgarian politician and member of the European Parliament. First elected to parliament in 2014 at the age of 28, he was the youngest serving member at the time. In 2019, Maydell was re-elected to Parliament, where she continues to serve on the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE).
Maydell was ITRE’s rapporteur for the EU AI Act, the proposed legal framework governing the sale and use of artificial intelligence in the European Union, and was therefore tasked with writing a report on the European Commission’s proposal — which reflects the opinion of ITRE members. Maydell—in consultation with outside experts and stakeholders—was also responsible for drafting compromise amendments.
Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament
Briefly, how did you get started with AI? What drew you to the space?
When I first became a member of the European Parliament, I was one of the few young female Members of the European Parliament (MEP) working in technology. I have always been passionate about how Europe can better take advantage of the huge opportunities of technological innovation. The good thing about working in technology is that you’re always looking to the future. Having worked on cyber security, semiconductors and the digital agenda throughout my time in Parliament, I knew I would find working on the AI Act incredibly interesting and could use my experience in these areas to this global regulation.
What work are you most proud of (in AI)?
I’m proud of the work we’ve done on the AI Act. We have articulated a common European vision for the future of this technology — a vision in which artificial intelligence is more democratic, secure and innovative. Regulators and parliaments are naturally thinking about how to protect and prepare for worst-case scenarios and risks. but I also pushed hard for competitiveness to be at the heart of this debate. This included championing an open source research and exemption, an ambitious approach to regulatory sandboxes, and aligning our work with our international partners as much as possible to reduce market friction.
How do you address the challenges of the male-dominated tech industry and, by extension, the male-dominated AI industry?
We are slowly but surely seeing more women in tech and AI. I have female colleagues and friends who work in tech who are incredibly talented and really drive the tech agenda. It’s great that we have this network to support each other. I’ve also found that I’ve been embraced by the AI community and that’s what makes working on this topic so interesting and enjoyable.
What advice would you give to women looking to enter the AI field?
Just go for it! Be yourself, don’t think you have to stick to the mold or be like other people. Everyone has something unique to offer. The more women continue to share their ideas, visions and voices, the more they will inspire other women to enter the world of technology. Whenever I speak to student groups or young MEPs, it’s great to see so many women interested in entering this field — you can feel the change happening.
What are some of the most pressing issues facing artificial intelligence as it evolves?
The biggest challenge for any politician working in technology and artificial intelligence is trying to regulate and prepare for the future accurately. Despite all the facts, numbers and research, there is a certain element of searching for a “crystal ball”. The big issues that politicians will have to deal with are:
First, how can this technology make our economies more competitive while ensuring wider societal benefit? Second, how can we stop AI from fueling misinformation? And third, how do we set international rules to ensure that artificial intelligence is developed and used according to democratic standards?
What are some issues AI users should be aware of?
The very serious challenge posed by artificial intelligence as a vehicle to accelerate the spread of disinformation and fakes. This is especially important this year, as 50% of people will go to the polls to vote. We all need to use a critical eye on the images, videos and news articles we see. As technology improves, we have to be more careful with manipulation. This is a topic I am working on extensively at the moment.
What’s the best way to build responsible AI?
If we want a future in which artificial intelligence improves our lives and helps solve our most pressing challenges, then there is one key ingredient: trust. We need trust in these technologies.
We cannot afford to rest on our laurels. AI law does not mean we are “one and done”. We have to keep wondering what’s next — and that doesn’t necessarily mean more regulation. But it means constantly keeping an eye on the big picture—how AI and regulation affect the economy, security, and our lives.
How can investors best push for responsible AI?
Investing in AI or any innovative technology is no different than investing in any other product. Businesses, banks and corporations are aware of the fact that there are significant financial advantages to being a positive force in the world around us. Ultimately, scaling AI in a responsible manner is more likely to sustain success, reduce financial risks and failures, and thus build consumer and market confidence.
