Workshop 2: The Interplay Between Digital Sovereignty and Development

Europe’s pursuit of digital sovereignty requires a delicate balance between autonomy and global interconnectivity. However, the EU’s reliance on non-European technologies raises questions about the true extent of its sovereignty. Many nations within and beyond the EU face similar struggles, often with fewer resources to develop independent alternatives. Their digital ecosystems are shaped by external powers, reinforcing geopolitical dependencies and limiting equitable access.

Defining digital sovereignty is not just a technical challenge: it is also a cultural and political one. This session will explore strategies for achieving sovereignty without compromising flexibility in an interconnected world, focusing on how Europe can foster a shared vision that respects national autonomy while enabling cross-border collaboration, resilience, and innovation.