European Union citizens expressed a desire to limit their dependence on foreign technology and prioritize EU-controlled alternatives in a Eurobarometer survey [1].

This shift in public sentiment highlights a growing movement toward digital sovereignty. As the bloc relies heavily on software and hardware from outside its borders, the demand for homegrown solutions could reshape the region's trade and regulatory landscape.

The survey, released in 2024, indicates that respondents across the European Union are increasingly concerned about the implications of relying on non-EU technology [1]. This concern spans various sectors of the digital economy, reflecting a broader trend toward strategic autonomy within the union.

Digital sovereignty involves the ability of a state or region to control its own digital destiny. This includes the capacity to manage data, secure infrastructure, and develop software without being subject to the policies or outages of foreign entities [1].

While the survey identifies a general preference for EU-led alternatives, the transition involves significant challenges. Developing a competitive tech ecosystem requires massive investment in research and development to rival the established dominance of foreign firms [1].

The findings suggest that the public is becoming more aware of the risks associated with technological dependence. These risks often include data privacy concerns, and the potential for geopolitical leverage to be used through the restriction of essential digital services [1].

EU officials have previously discussed the need for a more robust internal market for digital services. The survey results provide a public mandate for policies that encourage the adoption of European-made technology over imports [1].

“European Union citizens expressed a desire to limit their dependence on foreign technology”

The push for digital sovereignty reflects a strategic shift in the EU to mitigate geopolitical risks and protect data privacy. By reducing reliance on foreign tech, the EU aims to avoid vulnerabilities associated with external supply chains and foreign surveillance, though achieving this will require significant capital and a shift in consumer behavior.