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Europe stands at a pivotal moment in defining its digital future. The continent’s competitiveness and its ability to embrace the innovations of tomorrow hinge on the development of innovative, resilient digital infrastructures. This realization comes amid growing recognition that fast, secure, and widespread connectivity is not merely a convenience but a necessity. Such connectivity is the backbone for deploying transformative technologies like telemedicine, automated driving, artificial intelligence, and smart building technologies. These innovations promise to redefine the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us.
Understanding the critical role of digital infrastructure, the European Union has laid out a strategic vision aimed at achieving ambitious digital infrastructure goals by 2030. Central to this vision are a series of proposed actions and recommendations designed to ensure Europe remains at the forefront of the digital age.
Fostering a Vibrant Community of European Innovators
At the heart of the EU’s strategy is the commitment to fostering a vibrant community of European innovators. This vision recognizes the need for a more developed and better-integrated connectivity and computing infrastructure. Such an environment is essential for facilitating collaboration and innovation. To this end, the proposal suggests the creation of a network specifically designed to support collaboration among European innovators. This network will serve as a foundation for shared development and innovation in critical digital technologies and infrastructures.
Realizing the Full Potential of the Digital Single Market for Telecoms
The EU’s digital strategy also emphasizes the importance of realizing the full potential of the digital single market for telecoms. Achieving this goal requires a comprehensive reassessment of the current regulatory framework to ensure a level playing field for all market participants. The proposed actions suggest a reevaluation of the application and objectives of existing rules, with an eye toward fostering a more competitive and inclusive digital telecoms market.
Assessing and Reducing Security Risks
Acknowledging the importance of security in the digital age, the EU’s strategy calls for a targeted approach to assessing and mitigating the risks associated with critical infrastructures, such as submarine cables. Given that over 99% of intercontinental data traffic relies on these cables, and considering their importance for intra-EU communication, especially for several European islands, the proposal introduces the idea of a Cable Security Toolbox. This toolbox would provide a comprehensive set of tools and practices designed to enhance the security and resilience of these vital assets.
Engaging Stakeholders and Setting Concrete Proposals
The proposed actions and recommendations are intended to kickstart a dialogue among stakeholders, Member States, and like-minded partners. The goal is to shape future EU policies through a collaborative and inclusive process. To this end, the European Commission has launched a public consultation on 12 scenarios, open until 30 June 2024. This consultation represents a unique opportunity for all parties to contribute to the development of a coherent and ambitious digital infrastructure policy framework.
The Path Forward
The EU’s 2030 digital infrastructure goals are both ambitious and necessary. Achieving them will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved. By fostering a community of innovators, ensuring a competitive digital market, enhancing the security of critical infrastructures, and engaging in a broad-based consultation process, the EU is laying the groundwork for a successful digital transition. This transition is essential not only for Europe’s economic competitiveness but also for the well-being and prosperity of its citizens in the digital age.
