EU Commission announces new Digital Infrastructure Initiative

The European Commission has unveiled a comprehensive set of proposals aimed at bolstering the innovation, security, and resilience of digital infrastructures across the continent. With the relentless march of technological progress, the future competitiveness of Europe’s economy hinges upon the robustness of its digital network infrastructures. From telemedicine to automated driving, predictive maintenance of buildings to precision agriculture, fast, secure, and widespread connectivity is indispensable for the deployment of these groundbreaking innovations.

At the heart of this initiative lies the recognition of the challenges Europe faces in rolling out future connectivity networks. The White Paper on “How to master Europe’s digital infrastructure needs?” delves into these challenges, offering insights and possible scenarios to attract investments, foster innovation, enhance security, and achieve a true Digital Single Market.

One of the key elements of the digital connectivity package is the recommendation on the security and resilience of submarine cable infrastructures. This recommendation sets forth a series of actions, both at national and EU levels, aimed at fortifying the security and resilience of submarine cables—a critical component of Europe’s digital backbone.

To foster a dynamic community of European innovators and propel the development of integrated connectivity and collaborative computing infrastructures, the White Paper proposes the establishment of a “Connected Collaborative Computing” Network (3C Network). This network would facilitate the creation of end-to-end integrated infrastructures and platforms, serving as a launchpad for innovative technologies and AI applications across various domains.

Furthermore, the proposal emphasises the need to leverage synergies between existing initiatives and funding programs, such as the Connecting Europe Facility and Digital Europe. By coordinating efforts and resources, the EU can maximise the impact of its investments in digital infrastructure and ensure a level playing field for all operators.

Crucially, the EU must also address regulatory challenges to fully unleash the potential of the digital single market for telecoms. This entails rethinking regulatory frameworks to accommodate technological convergence and ensure fair competition while incentivising investments in digital infrastructure.

Protecting Europe’s network and computing infrastructure is paramount for economic security. The EU’s commitment to incentivising deployment and enhancing the security of strategic submarine cable infrastructures underscores its dedication to safeguarding Europe’s digital future.

As the Commission launches a public consultation on the proposed scenarios outlined in the White Paper, stakeholders, Member States, and like-minded partners are invited to contribute to shaping future EU policy actions. With collaboration and innovation at its core, Europe is poised to navigate the digital landscape and emerge as a global leader in the digital age.