Security companies play a vital role in safeguarding public spaces and Critical Infrastructure. When responsibly deployed, AI can enhance situational awareness and preparedness, speed up emergency response, and support frontline personnel. To unlock these benefits, however, the right regulatory and financial frameworks must be in place.

CoESS Four Key Recommendations for the EU Apply AI Strategy:

1. Clarify the Regulatory Landscape
   Security companies face legal complexity when navigating the EU digital acquis, incl. the EU AI Act and GDPR. CoESS urges national authorities to provide clear, sector-specific guidance. While CoESS has published a Charta on the use of AI, additional hands-on compliance support is critical.

2. Enable AI Evaluation Through Financial Support
   Many companies, especially SMEs, need targeted funding to implement systems that monitor and evaluate AI technologies effectively and transparently.

3. Boost Innovation via AI Sandboxes and Research Collaboration
   CoESS calls for wider access to regulatory sandboxes and stronger partnerships between the security sector and research institutions. These are essential for testing AI in real-world conditions without unnecessary delays.

4. Revise the Public Procurement Directive
   Public tenders should reward responsible AI adoption. Updating procurement rules to include innovation-supportive criteria can significantly boost AI uptake in security and other strategic sectors.

With this contribution to the EU Apply AI Strategy, CoESS reaffirms its commitment to responsible AI adoption that enhances public security and European preparedness and resilience. We look forward to continued dialogue with EU institutions and partners to ensure security providers are equipped for the future.