Global Perspectives on Digital and AI Legislation: A Comparative Study of Data Protection, AI Governance, and Healthcare Innovations with a Focus on Romania

Digital and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are reshaping governance, requiring adaptive regulatory frameworks to ensure data privacy, digital identity security, and AI ethics. This study examines global approaches to AI and data governance, focusing on the European Union’s (EU) General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and AI Act, compared to regulatory structures in the United States (US). Romania serves as a case study to assess national implementation challenges and sector-specific impacts, particularly in healthcare. Using a mixed-methods approach combining legislative analysis, comparative study, and sectoral case examination, the research highlights key takeaways: Romania’s progress in AI-driven healthcare solutions, the necessity of tailored digital infrastructure investments, and the role of government ordinances in ensuring compliance. Policy recommendations emphasize public-private collaboration, regulatory adaptation, and targeted sectoral strategies to enhance Romania’s AI governance while aligning with EU standards.