The role of the European Union in shaping an ethical and legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI) in education

This paper examines the role of the European Union in the definition of an ethical and legal framework vis-à-vis the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Drawing from core EU policy strategies and the draft AI Act, the paper analyzes how EU institutions seek to frame trustworthy, transparent, and socially human AI in education, textually via regulation (in progress), policy coordination, and ethical guidelines. Specific focus is placed on the difficulties involved in applying this framework at the national level, with the case of Romania as a specific example. Results reveal a discrepancy between high-level European intentions and practical Member State preparedness, with implications for the organization of sectoral relations, teacher training, and control mechanisms. Through a normative-institutional analysis complemented with national-level data, the article engages with the academic debate and provides practical policy recommendations to shape a fairer and responsible governance of AI in education.