On 30 January 2023, the Bureau of the Steering Committee for Education (CDEDU) of the Council of Europe will convene in Strasbourg to discuss the groundbreaking "Preparatory study for the development of a legal Instrument on regulating the use of AI systems in education".

This high-level meeting marks a significant step towards shaping the future of AI in educational settings across Europe. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the use and impact of AI systems in education. It highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to ensure these systems are used ethically and responsibly while respecting human agency and development.

The meeting in Strasbourg will bring together policy makers and educational experts to discuss the study findings by focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence systems.

The agenda for the meeting includes:

• Review of the preparatory study: An in-depth examination of the findings, emphasising the need for regulation to address issues such as data privacy, bias in AI algorithms, and the impact of AI on pedagogical practices.
• Debate on legal frameworks: A discussion on developing a legally binding instrument to regulate the use of AI systems in education and the potential structure and scope of such a framework, considering the diversity of education systems and state of technology use in the member states.
• Collaborative approaches: Focus on fostering international co-operation in regulating AI in education, recognising the global nature of technological advancements and the need for harmonised regulatory practices.
• Future steps: Outlining a roadmap for implementation of the legal instrument, including stakeholder engagement and strategies for effective enforcement.

The outcomes of these discussions will have far-reaching implications for educational institutions, and technology developers and policy makers across Europe. They will set the stage for a co-ordinated effort to ensure that AI systems are used to enhance educational outcomes, protect the rights of learners, educators and parents, and uphold democratic values.

The Bureau meeting underscores the Council of Europe's commitment to address the complex intersection of technology and education. The discussions in Strasbourg will be a pivotal moment in shaping a future where AI in education is synonymous with innovation, equity, and integrity.