The European Commission and the High Representative have presented a new joint strategy to guide the European Union’s external digital actions. The plan comes at a time when the digital revolution is transforming economies and societies worldwide, amid growing geopolitical tensions.
The EU International Digital Strategy positions the EU as a reliable and stable partner, ready to collaborate with allies on digital development. While continuing to strengthen its competitiveness in artificial intelligence and other key technologies at home, the EU also aims to support other countries in their digital transformation.
The strategy is built on three main goals:
- Expanding international partnerships
The EU will deepen existing Digital Partnerships and Dialogues, create new ones, and build a Digital Partnership Network. These efforts will enhance both the EU’s and its partners’ digital strength and security. - Introducing an EU Tech Business Offer
The EU plans to combine public and private investments to help partner countries upgrade their digital systems. Key areas include AI development hubs, secure connectivity, digital public infrastructure, and cybersecurity. - Promoting global digital governance
The EU will advocate for a rules-based digital world that respects human rights, democracy, and the rule of law—values at the core of the European model.
The EU already works with many global partners through Digital and Cyber Dialogues, Trade and Technology Councils, and Digital Trade Agreements. Initiatives like the Global Gateway and new Security and Defence Partnerships further support this work.
Future cooperation will focus on key areas:
- Secure digital infrastructure to support vital sectors like energy, transport, finance, and healthcare.
- Emerging technologies, including AI, 5G/6G networks, semiconductors, and quantum computing.
- Digital governance that promotes social unity and protects democratic values and human rights.
- Cybersecurity, to strengthen partner countries’ defences and, in turn, reinforce the EU’s own security.
- Digital identities and public infrastructure, aiming for agreements that make cross-border business and travel easier.
- Online platforms that uphold child safety, privacy, freedom of speech, and democratic engagement.
With this new strategy, the EU is reinforcing its role as a global digital leader and partner, committed to a fair, open, and secure digital future.
