The Apply AI Strategy identifies the public sector as a strategic domain for AI, recognising its dual role as both a major user of AI‑driven services and a catalyst for fostering the development of EU-made AI solutions across the EU. The report translates the Strategy’s high‑level ambitions into a practical guide for governments at national, regional and local levels. It presents a three‑pillar framework based on three core activities - anchoring, adapting and applying - wrapped in continuous assessment and monitoring. 

Anchoring AI to the EU policy, principles and priorities 

The first pillar stresses the importance for the public sector to align with the EU’s AI regulatory and policy framework, such as the AI Act and the AI Continent Action Plan. The AI Act defines risk categories for AI systems, that also include obligations for public services providers falling under the high-risk category. 

Besides, public administrations are called to tie AI adoption to the public sector’s specific mandate, creating public value by addressing collective needs. This also implies to respect the principles of transparency, providing trustworthy AI-solutions, and inclusivity, ensuring AI adoption does not discriminate groups of citizens.  

Adapting by strengthening capacities to become AI-ready 

The second pillar introduces the enabling factors that public bodies need to put in place to become AI-ready. The report suggests that public administrations need to adopt a holistic approach based on three categories: technological, organisational and contextual factors. These include, for instance, access to high‑quality data, reliable infrastructure, robust cybersecurity, and a culture that embraces innovation. 

An important aspect is the public acceptance of AI solutions, which is crucial for a successful adoption. Engaging with citizens and understanding the broader environment in which the administration operates is essential to leverage AI’s potential.  

Applying AI where it creates the most public value 

The third pillar guides administrations to prioritise and identify the domains where AI could bring the most value. Based on an analysis of the Public Sector Tech Watch (PSTW) database, collecting over 1,600 AI use cases, the report identifies three key application fields: AI‑enhanced administration, AI‑enabled people‑centric public services and AI‑assisted policymaking. Within these application fields key AI use cases have been identified including, for instance, the use of AI for data processing, personalised services, policy-drafting. This analysis of AI solutions can support administrations in their prioritisation choices.   

A sectoral based approach in national AI Strategies 

The report outlines several policy recommendations for policy makers in Member States. Firstly, national AI strategies may be revised with the recognition of the strategic importance of the public sector as a driver of innovation for AI adoption. This would allow alignment with the sectoral approach proposed by the Apply AI strategy. 

Among the recommendations, the report highlights the importance of an adequate level of AI literacy within public administrations for an effective AI adoption. This could be achieved via several instruments, such as the AI literacy programmes available via the European Digital Innovation Hubs. Also, the report recommends engaging with EU initiatives and funding instruments that offer a vaste range of opportunities for Member States and public administrations to maximise AI uptake. 

Related links

The Apply AI strategy

Report: Advancing AI adoption in EU public administrations: Future directions and opportunities under the Apply AI Strategy