European Digital ministers unveil nine-point plan for innovation-friendly digital policy reform

Key elements of the plan include creating a low-burden digital environment, advancing Europe’s data economy, and ensuring effective platform regulation.

Germany, Frankfurt, European Central Bank and skyline in the background at sunset

Digital ministers from Germany, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia presented a comprehensive nine-point plan in Mainz, outlining proposals to reform the EU digital policy. The plan, aimed at fostering innovation, was submitted to the Commission ahead of the legislative cycle following the upcoming European Parliament elections.

The plan covers areas such as creating a low-burden digital environment, promoting Europe’s data economy, ensuring effective platform regulation, and strengthening digital expertise, funding, and innovation potential. Additionally, the ministers highlighted the need for innovation-friendly cybersecurity regulation and emphasized Germany’s strategic leadership in European digital affairs.

Finally, the ministers stressed the importance of member states actively contributing to shaping an innovation-friendly approach. They addressed concerns regarding Chinese components in telecommunications infrastructure, with some Baltic states excluding China due to trust issues.

Why does it matter?

The plan’s recognition of member states actively shaping innovation-friendly approaches is essential as it fosters a sense of shared responsibility. However, addressing concerns about Chinese components in telecommunications infrastructure highlights a potential fracture within the EU, with some Baltic states taking a more cautious approach. This could potentially raise questions about the unity and cohesion of the EU in navigating geopolitical considerations in the digital realm.