What is a Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment (FRIA)?

• A. An assessment mandated by the EU AI Act for High-Risk AI to ensure it does not negatively affect individual rights
• B. A privacy impact assessment required for all AI systems
• C. A financial risk assessment for AI projects
• D. A technical security assessment for data integrity

Answer: (A)

Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment is a formal process required by the EU AI Act for High-Risk AI systems. It looks at how deploying the AI could affect individuals’ fundamental rights—such as privacy, equality and non-discrimination, freedom of expression, due process, and safety—and identifies ways to prevent or mitigate those harms. This assessment is done before the system is placed on the market or used in services, and its findings guide the risk management measures, governance structures, and any necessary design changes to ensure compliance. It’s broader than a privacy impact assessment, which focuses specifically on data protection; FRIA addresses a wider set of rights and potential impacts beyond just data handling. As part of the conformity process for High-Risk AI, FRIA supports accountability and informs ongoing oversight and stakeholder trust.