Germany Advocates for EU Digital Sovereignty Without Protectionism

Europe must develop its own digital infrastructure to lessen reliance on U.S. providers, according to Germany's digital minister, Karsten Wildberger. Despite concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's trade policies, Europe seeks alternatives in the U.S.-dominated digital services sector. Germany and the EU should engage as active players rather than mere customers to achieve digital sovereignty, Wildberger stated. He highlighted the vast growth potential in technology, innovation, software, data, and artificial intelligence. While Europe has produced leaders like Mistral AI, DeepL, and Aleph Alpha, U.S. firms remain ahead in AI and are necessary partners for Germany's business models. Digital sovereignty does not equate to protectionism; access to the global market is essential, Wildberger emphasized. Addressing fears of disrupted transatlantic cooperation, he noted U.S. companies' interest in international business. German firms need options, such as data storage and infrastructure operation choices. Digital sovereignty also involves rethinking the supply chain from rare earths and chip design to servers and cables.