The European Commission is set to adopt a decision that will prioritize European satellite operators, aiming to limit the expansion of services like Elon Musk’s Starlink within the EU. This move stems from concerns about strategic dependence on US companies for critical communications infrastructure, highlighted by Starlink’s role in Ukraine. The decision focuses on the allocation of the 2 GHz radio spectrum, a harmonized band within the EU, for direct-to-device satellite communications. By favoring European providers in this crucial frequency band, the EU seeks to bolster its technological sovereignty and resilience against foreign dependence.
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The Trump administration’s approach to the rule of law is generating concern among global technology users, as the 2018 Cloud Act permits U.S. authorities to access data stored by U.S. tech companies, regardless of its physical location. This legislation means that data held on servers or in the cloud by firms like Microsoft, Apple, or Adobe, even if located internationally, can be requested by the U.S. government. Consequently, users are often unaware of which authorities are accessing their data or how it is being utilized.
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The EU Parliament has adopted a report on technological sovereignty, aiming to reduce dependence on US technologies and expand European capabilities. This resolution calls for bold reforms, including a “Cloud and AI Development Act,” and allows member states to favor European tech providers in strategic sectors. The report emphasizes the use of open standards and interoperability, advocating for a “Public Money, Public Code” principle and public-private investments to build strategic infrastructure. Experts warn that the US views digital infrastructure as a national security asset, emphasizing the need for a “European Tech First” approach to counter “digital imperialism” and secure Europe’s ability to act independently.
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John Q. Hosedrinker