Spain unveils new AI plan as Sánchez warns unregulated technology could have ‘devastating’ consequences

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has cautioned that artificial intelligence (AI) concentrated in the hands of a select few companies and nations could have "devastating" consequences. During a speech at the Moncloa in Madrid, Sánchez vehemently rejected the notion that the rapidly evolving AI industry could self-regulate. He argued that governments and society must establish rules governing the technology, which is advancing at an unprecedented pace.

Sánchez warned that unregulated, opaque AI controlled by a few entities could be disastrous, threatening shared prosperity and democracy. The Spanish government unveiled its 12-month Plan IA360, a strategy aimed at promoting responsible AI deployment while tightening safeguards. This plan combines investments in computing infrastructure and new AI models with measures addressing cybersecurity, education, employment, data centers, and regulation.

Sánchez criticized the self-regulation of major tech companies, comparing the debate to the Gilded Age's influence of corporate power on government. He emphasized the need for collective human control over AI development, arguing that without it, AI could become chaotic rather than intelligent. The Spanish government intends to strengthen cybersecurity and increase oversight of advanced AI models, while also fostering economic opportunities through an AI gigafactory and developing AI models for healthcare, energy, and climate change.

Education efforts will focus on teaching young people to use AI responsibly, and the government aims for more than half of Spanish companies to incorporate AI by 2030.