In recent years, the European Union has undertaken ambitious legislative efforts to govern the digital and technological transition. The proposal for an AI Act, for example, seeks to establish a harmonized legal framework to ensure that AI systems placed on the market respect fundamental rights, while the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) aim to increase transparency and accountability in digital platforms, particularly those with systemic influence. Additionally, the recent revision of the Product Liability Directive and the adoption of the new Directive on liability for AI systems further illustrate the EU’s commitment to adapting its liability regime to the risks posed by novel technologies. These instruments are not only technically complex but also raise significant normative and interpretive challenges.

In this context, the ELSE Group promotes a multidisciplinary approach, engaging legal scholars, ethicists, economists, and social scientists, while actively fostering collaboration with engineers, computer scientists, and industry stakeholders. As recognized by the Robotics4EU community, only through inclusive, cross-sectoral cooperation can we ensure that the design, deployment, and regulation of robotics and AI are aligned with societal values, user needs, and democratic principles. The ELSE Group thus serves as a bridge between academic expertise and practical implementation, contributing to a responsible, human-centric technological development in Europe.