Adult Industry Demands Inclusion in EU AI Regulation Talks

In Brief:

A group of adult industry professionals and advocates has issued an open letter to EU regulators, urging inclusion in AI regulation discussions, citing overlooked perspectives.

Concerns include potential overregulation, censorship, and the impact of AI on adult content, with calls for a balanced approach to protect digital rights and safety.

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Adult Industry Demands Inclusion in EU AI Regulation Talks

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A collective of sex industry professionals and advocates has issued an open letter to European Union regulators, demanding a voice in the discussions shaping AI regulations. The group, which includes sex workers, erotic filmmakers, and sex tech enterprises, argues that their perspectives are being overlooked in crucial debates on AI technology.

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Concerns Over AI's Impact on Adult Content

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The letter, seen by WIRED, highlights concerns about the potential for overregulation and censorship within the adult industry. Ana Ornelas, an erotic author and educator, emphasized the threat posed by deepfakes, which predominantly target women and girls, and the risk of legitimate adult content being swept away with nonconsensual material.

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The initiative, led by figures such as Ornelas and filmmaker Paulita Pappel, seeks to ensure that AI regulations consider the unique challenges faced by the adult industry. They argue that current regulatory strategies risk excluding first-hand insights and could lead to draconian measures that harm an already marginalized community.

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A Call for Balanced AI Policy

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The Open Mind AI initiative, supported by organizations like the European Sex Workers’ Rights Alliance, calls for a balanced approach that safeguards fundamental rights and fosters a sex-positive online environment. The group acknowledges the need to protect young people from age-inappropriate content but insists on a nuanced dialog that includes all stakeholders.

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The European Commission's recent AI legislation aims to promote responsible AI use, but adult industry advocates warn of a "blind spot" in digital regulation. They urge regulators to engage in open discussions and consider the industry's perspectives to avoid unintended consequences.

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