European Cooperation on Digital Autonomy
The participating countries are working closely with European companies and knowledge institutions on digital commons: open and transparent alternatives for digital services such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and social networks that are jointly developed and managed. By sharing knowledge, resources, and contacts, the development of European technology is expected to accelerate.
“Eighty percent of our digital technology and infrastructure still comes from non-European countries. That can and must change,” says State Secretary Eddie van Marum. “We are working towards greater digital sovereignty, together with our European partners and the European business community. That is why I am pleased that the European Commission has approved the establishment of this collaboration today.”
Supporting Existing Initiatives
The EDIC Digital Commons will coordinate and support existing European initiatives. This includes technical and legal assistance and help with fundraising. A central place will also be established – both physically and online – where projects can seek assistance.
The main objectives of the EDIC are:
- Strengthening the European digital ecosystem through collaboration between public, private, academic, and technical parties.
- Developing a sustainable financing model for the production, maintenance, and use of digital commons.
- Encouraging the use of these commons by governments, businesses, and citizens.
“With the EDIC Digital Commons, we combine our strengths and scale up joint European solutions. This ensures that governments across Europe have the resources to truly become digitally independent,” says Art de Blaauw, CIO Director of the Dutch government and chairman of the EDIC.
Involved Member States
In addition to the four founding member states, Luxembourg, Slovenia, and Poland are involved in the EDIC with observer status. Several other EU member states have expressed interest in joining.
The official launch of the consortium will take place on Thursday, December 11, in The Hague.
