An upcoming special issue of The European Journal on Artificial Intelligence (formerly AI Communications) will spotlight the "History of Artificial Intelligence in Europe," with guest editors Cristian Barrué and Ulises Cortés inviting submissions until February 2025. This initiative aims to chronicle the rich and diverse development of AI across the European continent.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a scientific discipline has developed for almost seven decades. From its roots in ancient times, with myths and stories about artificial beings, to the modern era of machine learning and knowledge-based systems, AI has evolved through several stages with successes and failures.

It is undoubtedly one of the most elusive topics in Computer Science; we must approach its study from various perspectives. This situation is due in part to the enormous and nebulous nature of the very definition of intelligence. Applications of AI range from machines that are capable of reasoning to fast and complex search algorithms used to play, for example, board games as complex as Go. AI has relevant applications in almost all areas of life and has been adapted to how we use computers in society. The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has highlighted the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on scientific research, particularly in the field of protein structure prediction and design.

Recognizing the importance of documenting Europe's contributions to AI, the European Association for Artificial Intelligence (EurAI) has launched several initiatives:

• Organizing workshops to discuss and document European AI developments.
• Compiling oral histories from pioneering European AI researchers.
• Creating a comprehensive timeline of AI's history in Europe.

These efforts aim to preserve the rich tapestry of European AI research and innovation, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and build upon this legacy.

Special issue focus
The purpose of this special issue, which will be published in The European Journal on Artificial Intelligence, is to showcase the history of artificial intelligence in Europe. We invite all researchers, research groups or institutes in Europe to submit an article describing among others:

1. What historical factors have influenced Europe's current position in the global AI landscape;
2. Pioneering European AI research and researchers;
3. The impact of European AI innovations on global AI development and
4. Unique European Ethical, Legal, Socioeconomic, cultural approaches to AI and its governance. There is no fixed article structure as long as the above questions are addressed in sufficient detail.

Eligibility
Papers must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. European Focus: The submission should primarily address AI research, developments, initiatives, or policies originating in Europe. It should highlight the contributions of European institutions, researchers, or companies to AI advancement, situating these within Europe’s unique political, economic, and social context.
2. Historical Significance and Impact: The paper must cover key events, breakthroughs, or trends that have demonstrably shaped the trajectory of AI development in Europe. Authors should provide robust evidence illustrating how these historical factors have influenced Europe’s current position in the global AI landscape.
3. Comparative and Critical Analysis: The submission should offer a comparative perspective, discussing how historical factors unique to Europe (e.g., regulatory approaches, funding mechanisms, ethical considerations) have differentiated its AI landscape from other regions.Authors should critically analyse how these historical differences have contributed to Europe’s current strengths, challenges, and overall positioning in the global AI ecosystem, providing insights into potential future trajectories.

This special issue provides an excellent opportunity to document, analyse, and celebrate Europe’s significant role in shaping the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Submission guidelines
Articles should be formatted using the LaTeX style available here.
The article title should reflect the research focus of the group. There are no strict page limits, but we suggest no more than ten pages. Articles can be submitted to the special issue via the submission portal.
At the "Select Article Type" step, please select "Special issue paper" from the drop-down menu.

Deadline and review process
Submissions must be received by February 28, 2025. The editors will screen each submission for eligibility, formatting, and whether questions (1–3) above are covered. If you have any questions regarding the special issue or eligibility, do not hesitate to contact the special issue guest editors.

Guest Editors
Cristian Barrué Institut de Robòtica i Informàtica Industrial (CSIC-UPC), Barcelona, Spain cbarrue@iri.upc.edu

Ulises Cortés Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya & Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Barcelona, Spain ia@cs.upc.edu