This study provides an account of the creation of the governance framework for artificial intelligence in the European Union, under a trinomial approach based on ethical rules, standardization and Hard-Law regulation. Initially, some bottom-up and top-down initiatives are addressed, which have influenced the Community response. Subsequently, it examines the novel Community policy of governance of artificial intelligence, the incipient support structures for the construction of this framework, and makes a critical assessment of the three instruments on which the EU's response to the Al challenge is based: the ethical framework which aims at the promotion of a global standard; the standardisation process, which seeks to facilitate technical development and promote a high standard of consumer and user protection; and finally, the unfinished regulatory framework of Hard-Law, which requires strong EU intervention to overcome risks and ensure the harmonious development of the data market and Al market across Europe.