German state replaces Microsoft Exchange and Outlook with open-source email
9 hours ago
- #digital-sovereignty
- #government-tech
- #open-source
- Schleswig-Holstein replaced Microsoft Exchange and Outlook with Open-Xchange and Thunderbird.
- The migration covered 40,000+ mailboxes and 100M+ messages/calendar entries.
- The move is part of a broader strategy to achieve digital sovereignty.
- Other EU entities (e.g., Austrian military, Danish agencies) have also shifted to open-source.
- Open-source software is seen as key to reducing dependencies on proprietary vendors.
- Digital sovereignty is a major political issue in Europe, driven by distrust of U.S. tech firms.
- LibreOffice has replaced Microsoft Office in Schleswig-Holstein as part of the transition.
- The state aims to serve as a model for other administrations adopting open technologies.
- European leaders like Macron emphasize the need for 'European solutions and sovereignty.'