Under the EU AI Act, what type of AI systems are subject to a more flexible regulatory framework when used for humanitarian purposes?

The correct answer is C because the EU AI Act recognizes that certain high-risk AI systems, when employed for humanitarian purposes and used temporarily, may be subjected to a more flexible regulatory framework. This flexibility is intended to promote innovation and facilitate the deployment of AI solutions in critical contexts, such as disaster relief, emergency response, and other humanitarian efforts where immediate action is often needed.

This temporary usage reflects the understanding that while high-risk AI systems generally have more stringent regulations due to their potential impact, when these systems are deployed in specific humanitarian contexts, their benefits may outweigh the risks. Such an approach encourages the utilization of advanced AI technologies to address urgent social challenges without becoming overly encumbered by regulatory burdens that could delay or obstruct vital assistance.

In contrast, low-risk AI systems typically operate under less strict regulations but do not gain the same level of flexibility as high-risk systems in humanitarian deployments. Prohibited AI systems are not permitted under any circumstances, and academic research uses of AI systems are generally governed by different regulations that do not necessarily relate to the humanitarian context, thus making C the best fit for the question posed.