Europe’s Tech Sovereignty: A Matter of Survival
Europe’s Digital Future: Building a ‘Eurostack‘ for Sovereignty
The recent US election serves as a stark reminder of Europe’s vulnerability in the digital realm. Over-reliance on foreign tech infrastructure leaves the continent exposed, hindering its prosperity and security.
From the chips powering our devices to the platforms we use daily, Europe depends on a global tech stack it doesn’t control. This dependence is unsustainable,especially as 70% of new global economic value will be digitally driven over the next decade,according to a report by former Italian Prime Minister mario Draghi.
While the European Union has recognized the urgency of digital sovereignty, appointing Henna Virkkunen as its first-ever executive Vice President for Tech Sovereignty, a clear strategy remains elusive.More regulation alone won’t solve the problem. Europe already struggles to enforce existing laws, and further restrictions on American tech giants could trigger retaliatory measures, jeopardizing transatlantic relations.
The solution lies in a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors. Europe needs a complete industrial strategy, an “eurostack” vision, to align government objectives with industry capabilities.
This strategy must leverage Europe’s strengths: its innovative spirit and vibrant ecosystem of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
SMEs are the backbone of Europe’s economy, representing 99% of all businesses. These agile companies are driving digital innovation, especially in the B2B sector, providing the software and services that power the digital conversion of other businesses and public administrations.By placing digital SMEs at the heart of its strategy, Europe can not only achieve technological independence but also become a global leader in the digital economy.
The DIGITAL SME summit, taking place on December 10th at the European Economic and Social Committee, will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the path towards a robust “eurostack” strategy.
Join the conversation and register here: https://summit.digitalsme.eu/
Sebastiano Toffaletti is the Secretary-General of the European DIGITAL SME Alliance.
Europe’s Digital Dependency: Can a ‘Eurostack’ Secure its Future?
NewsDirectery: Europe’s recent vulnerability in the digital sphere, as highlighted by the US elections, has ignited serious concerns about its future. We sat down with Sebastiano Toffaletti, Secretary-General of the European DIGITAL SME Alliance, to discuss the call for a ‘Eurostack’ – a strategy for technological self-reliance.
NewsDirectery: The reliance on foreign tech infrastructure seems to be a significant concern. can you elaborate?
sebastiano Toffaletti: Absolutely. From the chips powering our devices to the platforms we use daily, Europe depends heavily on a global tech stack it doesn’t control. with 70% of new global economic value projected to be digitally driven, this dependence is unsustainable.
NewsDirectery: The EU has taken steps towards digital sovereignty, appointing an Executive Vice president for Tech Sovereignty. What are your thoughts on this move,and what more needs to be done?
Toffaletti: It’s a positive step,recognizing the urgency. However, the EU needs a clear, actionable strategy beyond mere regulation. While necessary, more constraints on tech giants risk retaliation and could strain transatlantic relations.
NewsDirectery: So what’s the solution?
Toffaletti: A collaborative effort between the public and private sectors, building a extensive industrial strategy known as the ‘Eurostack.’ This vision must leverage Europe’s strengths, especially its innovative SMEs, which are driving digital transformation across sectors.
NewsDirectery: Why focus on SMEs?
Toffaletti: Because SMEs are the backbone of Europe’s economy. They are agile,innovative,and particularly strong in the B2B sector,providing the software and services that power the digital conversion of businesses and governments.
NewsDirectery: What’s next in this ‘Eurostack’ development?
Toffaletti: The DIGITAL SME summit on December 10th at the European Economic and Social Committee will bring key stakeholders together to chart the path towards a robust Eurostack strategy.
NewsDirectery: Thank you for sharing your insights, Mr.Toffaletti. We encourage our readers to join the conversation and learn more about building a stronger, more sovereign digital future for Europe.
[Link to the DIGITAL SME Summit registration page]