The rapid development of AI has significantly disrupted our society from different aspects. This technological disruption generates complex ethical, legal, and governance challenges relating to privacy, fairness, accountability, transparency, and regulation. As the risks associated with AI become more apparent, global attention has shifted from a race to develop AI technologies to a race to regulate them. In this evolving landscape, states and regional bodies increasingly compete to set global standards.

The objective of this course is to guide students in understanding the diverse risks posed by artificial intelligence and to explore the legal and regulatory approaches available to address them. The lectures combine theoretical analysis with practical skills. Students will engage with the most recent legal and policy developments worldwide, particularly within the European Union (including the AI Act, the Digital Services Act, and the new Product Liability Directive), as well as in other key jurisdictions such as China, the United States, and emerging economies.

By integrating conceptual frameworks with real-world case studies, the course equips students with the tools to critically evaluate and navigate the interplay between technology, law, and policy. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply a range of legal instruments to analyse and address complex questions surrounding the regulation of AI.

Applicable to students admitted before Semester A 2022/23 and in Semester A 2024/25 & thereafter

Students must obtain an overall mark of 40% in order to pass the course.

Applicable to students admitted from Semester A 2022/23 to Summer Term 2024

Students must obtain an overall mark of 50% in order to pass the course.