EU Shifts Focus: From Regulating Technology to Producing It

The European Union is signaling a significant shift in its approach to technology, moving beyond mere regulation to actively foster its own production capabilities. This strategic pivot towards technological sovereignty was a central theme at a recent conference held in Zagreb. The event, titled 'Winning the Global Race: Why Choosing Europe Matters,' brought together policymakers and experts to discuss the continent's future in the global tech landscape. Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission's Executive Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, was a prominent participant, underscoring the EU's commitment to this new direction. The conference highlighted the urgency for Europe to bolster its domestic technological production to remain competitive on the world stage. Discussions focused on the economic and strategic imperatives driving this change, emphasizing the need for investment in research, development, and manufacturing within the EU. The goal is to reduce reliance on external technological sources and build a more resilient and independent European digital economy.