DW Weekly #212 - EuroDIG 2025: the takeaways, UNGA reassesses terms for AI governance | EU and the cyberdefence policy

9 – 16 May 2025

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Dear readers,

In the week behind us, Diplo followed the European Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG 2025), with just-in-time reporting on this pivotal multistakeholder platform that fosters open dialogue on the future of digital governance. Organised by the Council of Europe in collaboration with the Luxembourg Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, the event convened stakeholders from governments, civil society, the private sector, and technical communities under the theme ‘Safeguarding Human Rights by Balancing Regulation and Innovation’.

Held at the Palais de l’Europe, EuroDIG 2025 featured a dynamic programme of main sessions, eleven workshops, and eight flash sessions, addressing pressing issues in internet governance while emphasising inclusivity, emerging technologies, and multilateral cooperation.

The workshops and flash sessions delved into cutting-edge topics such as digital sovereignty, quantum computing, and digital inclusion. The workshop on ‘The Interplay Between Digital Sovereignty and Development,’ for example, proposed a balanced approach to national control over digital infrastructure, advocating for policies that promote local innovation while maintaining global interoperability. Quantum computing discussions highlighted the need for preemptive governance frameworks to address its disruptive potential in cryptography and data security. Digital inclusion sessions called for targeted investments in digital literacy programmes to bridge access gaps, particularly in underserved regions.

Key propositions, such as ethical frameworks for neurotechnology, privacy-preserving age assurance, and sustainable AI metrics, offer actionable pathways to address current challenges.

The emphasis on youth engagement through YOUthDIG and the call for transatlantic cooperation signal a forward-looking approach to digital policy.

With such conclusions, EuroDIG 2025 is reinforcing Europe’s leadership in shaping digital governance through collaborative, inclusive dialogue. As usual, the event’s consensus-based outcomes or key takeaways compiled from the discussions, workshops, and main sessions will feed into the global IGF 2025, influencing international policy.

Other highlights of the week:

The EU Council has extended its sanctions on cyberattacks until 18 May 2026, with the legal framework for enforcing these measures now lasting until 2028. The sanctions target individuals and institutions involved in cyberattacks that pose a significant threat to the EU and its members.

On 15 May 2025, a revised draft UNGA resolution outlined updated terms for the Scientific Panel on AI and Global Dialogue on AI Governance. The Panel, comprising 40 members appointed for a 3-year term, will deliver annual policy-relevant AI assessments.

Amazon has announced a new partnership with Humain, an AI company launched by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to invest over $5 billion in creating an ‘AI Zone’ in the kingdom.

Two US senators, Cynthia Lummis and Bernie Moreno, are urging US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to revise how corporate digital assets are taxed. They have proposed a change to the definition of ‘adjusted financial statement income’ under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Chinese start-up AgiBot is leading the charge in humanoid robotics, using data-intensive training to develop machines capable of everyday tasks like folding clothes and making sandwiches.

For the main updates and reflections, consult the Radar and Reading Corner below.

DW Team