EU launches AI gigafactory tender while Italy calls for greater worker input on AI legislation

The European Union has moved to the operational phase of its AI strategy by publishing a call for proposals to build up to seven AI gigafactories. The facilities are intended to host massive computing power for training advanced AI models, offering roughly four times the processor capacity of earlier EU‑funded data centres. Funding will combine public EU resources with private capital, aiming to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty and reduce reliance on US and Chinese infrastructure.

In Italy, CISL confederation secretary Mattia Pirulli welcomed the country’s early adoption of an organic AI law, noting that Italy is among the first EU members to implement the AI Act through a new legislation approved by the Council of Ministers. However, Pirulli criticised the limited involvement of social partners, saying, “Bene l’Italia tra i primi in Europa per disciplina organica sull’AI, ma serve più partecipazione delle parti sociali.” He called for a stronger role for workers’ representatives in the design and risk‑assessment phases of AI systems in the workplace.

Both developments reflect a broader European push to shape AI governance, combining large‑scale investment in infrastructure with calls for inclusive regulatory processes.