Europeans are dangerously reliant on US tech Now is a good time to build our own
8 days ago
- #Europe
- #US Tech Dependence
- #Digital Sovereignty
- Europe's deep dependence on US tech is highlighted by sanctions on French judge Nicolas Guillou and colleagues, affecting e-commerce, payments, and digital life.
- Denmark and Spain express regret and security concerns over reliance on US military technology like F-35 fighter jets.
- US surveillance on European communications has been ongoing, yet trust in US tech persists across governments, businesses, and individuals.
- Europe has potential for digital sovereignty, with examples like Austria's military and Danish schools moving away from US tech.
- Challenges include fragmented EU markets, lack of investment for startups, and political resolve to enforce data laws and reduce US tech dominance.
- Recent EU agreements aim to create a unified market and prioritize 'buying European' in strategic sectors like defense and AI.
- European public opinion favors more EU-level powers and decision-making, resisting US influence.
- Enforcing strict data laws could weaken the grip of US tech giants on the European market.
- US tech dominance is seen as both an asset and a liability, with potential vulnerabilities Europe could exploit.
- Europe must act to prevent US tech firms from holding a 'kill switch' over its democracy, commerce, and military.