Is your organization prepared for the AI literacy requirements under the EU AI Act?
Article 4 of the EU Regulation on Artificial Intelligence (AI Act) has applied since February 2, 2025, and has brought with it a new and important obligation: to ensure a sufficient level of literacy in artificial intelligence.
This requirement applies to suppliers anddeployers of AI systems - covering not only their employees, but also any other persons acting on their behalf, such as service providers or subcontractors. The requirement aims to ensure that everyone involved in the use or operation of AI systems has the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to:
use the systems in an informed and responsible manner;
recognize risks and opportunities;
understand the potential harm associated with the use of AI.
What is "AI literacy"?
According to the AI Act, AI literacy is the ability to understand the workings and implications of AI, including technical, ethical and legal aspects. It's not just technical training: it's knowledge adapted to each person's role in the organization and the context in which systems are used.
What should your organization consider?
General understanding of AI: what it is, how it works and which systems are used internally, as well as its risks and benefits.
Role of the organization: are you developing AI systems or just using them?
Risk level of the systems used: the greater the risk, the more demanding the training should be.
User profile: training and guidance must be adjusted to the level of technical knowledge, experience, functions and context of use.
Legal and ethical aspects: it is essential to integrate an understanding of the AI Act and the applicable ethical principles.
Although the regulation does not require mandatory formal training, simply providing manuals or instructions for use is not enough, especially for high-risk systems. Appropriate and continuous training is highly recommended.
Important deadlines
From February 2, 2025: Article 4 obligations came into force.
From August 3, 2026: the rules on supervision and sanctions begin to apply.
Non-compliance can lead to enforcement measures and sanctions by national authorities, especially if a lack of AI literacy contributes to incidents or human oversight failures.
Extra-territorial application
The AI Act applies to organizations inside and outside the EU, as long as their AI systems are placed on the EU market, used in the EU or impact people located in the EU.
Support available
The EUAI Office provides resources such as briefings, FAQs and best practices.
The European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) offer support, especially to SMEs, in AI-related services, including training.
Read the following document to find out more.
