Artificial intelligence has ceased to be a promise of the future and has become a present-day reality requiring control and oversight frameworks. In Spain, various institutions and administrations are taking concrete steps to integrate AI into their governance structures, from creating new departments to holding conferences that analyze how to comply with European regulations. The challenge is no longer just technological, but also one of governance and corporate responsibility.
Over the past few weeks, three events have highlighted the growing importance of managing artificial intelligence in an orderly and ethical manner. The Madrid Bar Association (ICAM) hosted a conference on AI governance, the Andalusian government announced a dedicated department for this issue, and the 2nd International Congress on Psychology, Technological Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIPIE 2026) discussed the role of AI in mental health. All these initiatives share a common thread: the need to establish clear rules and control mechanisms.
From the AI Act to practice: governance as a priority
The conference “Towards Responsible AI: Governance, Trust, and Responsible Management under ISO/IEC 42001,” organized by the Madrid Bar Association (ICAM), brought together representatives from the legal, technological, and business sectors. The objective was to analyze how to translate the European Artificial Intelligence Regulation (AI Act) and the principles of the ISO 42001 standard into effective management systems. Alejandro Touriño, president of the ICAM's ICT Section, pointed out that “artificial intelligence is no longer the future, it is the present” and that the debate has shifted from experimentation to corporate governance. Experts from Iberdrola, Banco Santander, and Amadeus participated in the roundtable discussion, agreeing that compliance with the AI Act requires integrating AI into existing control structures, avoiding duplication and working in silos. The so-called “shadow AI” and dependence on large AI technology providers were also addressed.
Andalusia is committed to a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence
In the political sphere, the President of the Regional Government of Andalusia, Juanma Moreno, announced the creation of a new Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Development, and Public Administration, to be headed by José Antonio Nieto. According to Moreno, this ministry responds to the demands of the modern era, where AI is being applied in areas such as healthcare and citizen services. The measure aims to provide a coordinated boost to digitalization and the responsible use of technology in public services, while also strengthening the balance of power against other political forces. Andalusia thus becomes one of the first autonomous communities in Spain to have a specific department dedicated to artificial intelligence.
Psychology and ethics, the central themes of the debate at CIPIE 2026
The 2nd International Congress on Psychology, Technological Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (CIPIE 2026), held at the University of Navarra's Madrid campus, focused on the impact of artificial intelligence on psychological practice. Over three days, professionals, researchers, and companies analyzed the ethical challenges and opportunities that AI presents in mental health. The need to foster an innovation ecosystem based on scientific evidence was emphasized, one that promotes the ethical use of technology and generates new entrepreneurial opportunities. The congress underscored the importance of collaboration among universities, institutions, and companies to develop reliable and responsible tools.
The governance of artificial intelligence is emerging as a cross-cutting issue affecting European regulations, regional governments, and professional associations. The creation of the Andalusian department, the ICAM conferences, and the CIPIE congress demonstrate that Spain is moving towards a model of controlled, ethical AI that serves the public. The key will be for organizations not only to comply with regulations but also to be able to demonstrate their compliance, thereby building trust among regulators, clients, and society at large.
