Europe's Call for Digital Sovereignty: New Role for Change Management and Organization Consultants

Mobilizing Industry for Strategic Autonomy: The EuroStack Initiative

Introduction

In a recent open letter addressed to President Von der Leyen and Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, European industry leaders have called for urgent action to support Europe's digital sovereignty. The letter emphasizes the need for Europe to become technologically independent across all layers of its critical digital infrastructure to mitigate security and reliability risks and promote growth.

Background

The EuroStack initiative, central to this effort, aims to counter Europe's heavy reliance on non-European technologies. More than 80% of Europe's digital technologies and infrastructures are imported, and 70% of foundational AI models used globally originate in the United States. The EuroStack initiative emerged from a parliamentary event in September 2024 and brings together leading companies, academics, policymakers, and civil society.

Purpose of the Initiative

The EuroStack initiative seeks to develop Europe's own comprehensive digital infrastructure, integrating technology, financing, economic development, political governance, sustainability, and public interest considerations. It aims to reduce technological dependence, boost industry competitiveness, drive innovation, build resilient sovereign infrastructures, expand mutual networks, and harness digital technologies for the common good.

Strategic Autonomy

Strategic autonomy refers to the ability of a state or region to pursue its national interests and adopt its preferred policies without relying heavily on other foreign states. In the European context, it means the capacity of the European Union to act independently in strategically important areas, such as defense, economy, energy, and digital policy.

Sectors Concerned with Strategic Autonomy

1. Defense: Enhancing military capabilities and reducing reliance on non-European defense technologies.

2. Space: Developing independent space technologies and infrastructure.

3. Data: Protecting strategic data and ensuring secure data management.

4. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Managing investments to safeguard strategic industries.

5. Digital Policy: Ensuring technological sovereignty in computing power, connectivity, and AI frameworks.

6. Energy: Reducing dependence on non-European energy sources and developing renewable energy technologies.

7. Healthcare: Ensuring the availability of essential medical supplies and developing independent pharmaceutical capabilities.

8. Transportation: Developing autonomous and sustainable transportation systems, enhancing infrastructure, and reducing reliance on non-European technologies.

9. Construction: Promoting the use of European materials and technologies in building infrastructure, ensuring sustainability and reducing dependency on non-European imports.

10. Steel: Strengthening the European steel industry to ensure the availability of high-quality steel for various sectors, as it is foundational to construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development.

Transportation Technology