European Commission Unveils Digital Sovereignty Package as EU Relies on Foreigners for Over 80% of Tech
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 15
European Commission Unveils Digital Sovereignty Package as EU Relies on Foreigners for Over 80% of Tech
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 15
Summary
The European Commission has rolled out a digital “sovereignty package” aimed at strengthening homegrown technology and reducing the EU’s exposure to foreign interference, after concerns that US political pressure could disrupt critical services.
At its center is the Cloud and AI Development Act, which would rank cloud providers and steer the most sensitive public-sector data and operations toward suppliers meeting the highest sovereignty standards.
The package’s reach may be limited because the toughest restrictions would cover only a narrow slice of public cloud procurement, while enforcement would be left to national governments that may resist strict application.
Brussels also wants to triple Europe’s datacentre capacity within five to seven years, with each EU country required to create fast-track zones approving projects within 12 months.
The broader push reflects anxiety that the EU still depends on non-EU countries for more than 80% of its technology and 70% of its cloud computing, leaving digital infrastructure vulnerable to geopolitical pressure.
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Overview
On June 3, 2026, the European Commission unveiled the Digital Sovereignty Package, a bold initiative designed to strengthen Europe’s technological independence and leadership in the digital realm. This package aims to protect Europe’s digital independence, reduce reliance on non-EU technology providers, and position the continent as a global leader in artificial intelligence. It includes a range of legislative and strategic measures, such as the updated Chips Act, which targets critical areas of digital infrastructure and innovation. Together, these efforts mark a significant step toward making Europe an 'AI continent' and securing its digital future.