A Broad Coalition Calls for "Radical Action" to Bolster Europe’s Tech Industry
A broad coalition of tech companies and organizations has called for "radical action" from European Union lawmakers to reduce the bloc’s reliance on foreign-owned digital infrastructure and services. The coalition, which includes companies such as Airbus, Element, OVHCloud, Murena, Nextcloud, and Proton, among others, is urging the EU to adopt a digital industrial strategy that favors local innovation and reduces dependence on foreign technology.
Buy European
The coalition is advocating for a "Buy European" mandate, which would require public bodies to source at least a portion of their digital requirements from local providers. Industry leaders believe that this would create demand for European-made technologies, drive investment, and unlock growth.
Fixing the Demand Problem
According to the coalition, the demand problem is critical, and Europe needs to tilt the playing field in favor of homegrown tech. "Fixing this demand problem is most easily done by requiring that European public sector buy European, creating the impetus for the development of Europe’s tech sector," said one industry leader.
A New Approach is Needed
The coalition is also urging the EU to adopt a new approach to digital regulation, one that prioritizes the development of European-led and assembled solutions. "We need to stop talking about the Europe of the past and start looking towards the Europe of the future," said one industry leader.
Conclusion
The coalition’s call for action is a stark warning of the perils of continued reliance on foreign-owned digital infrastructure and services. With the rise of Big Tech, the stakes are higher than ever, and it is imperative that the EU takes bold action to secure its digital future.
FAQs
Q: What is the coalition’s proposal for the EU?
A: The coalition is advocating for a "Buy European" mandate, which would require public bodies to source at least a portion of their digital requirements from local providers.
Q: What are the risks of continued reliance on foreign-owned digital infrastructure and services?
A: The risks include the potential for significant economic and security challenges, as well as the loss of digital innovation and productivity growth.
Q: What is the coalition’s plan for promoting European tech innovation?
A: The coalition is advocating for a digital industrial strategy that prioritizes the development of European-led and assembled solutions, and encourages public procurement of European-made technologies.
Q: How can the EU support the growth of the European tech industry?
A: The EU can support the growth of the European tech industry by adopting a "Buy European" mandate, promoting public procurement of European-made technologies, and prioritizing the development of European-led and assembled solutions.
