In a decisive step towards the achievement of the 2030 Digital Decade policy programme, the European Union published its inaugural report on the state of the Digital Decade. This comprehensive assessment takes stock of the EU’s progress towards a successful digital transformation, setting out a strategic roadmap for the next decade.
Empowering a digitally sovereign EU
The report underlines the urgent need to accelerate and deepen collective efforts in policy, investment and technology adoption. It identifies four key pillars for a sovereign, resilient and digitally competitive EU: digital skills, digital infrastructure, digitalisation of businesses (including artificial intelligence) and digitalisation of public services. In addition, it underlines the follow-up to the European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles, which reflects the EU’s commitment to ensuring a secure and sustainable digital transformation that prioritises people.
Call for action to Member States
The 2023 report serves as a call to Member States, calling for collective action to close existing investment gaps, accelerate the digital transformation and meet the objectives outlined in the Digital Decade policy programme. The Programme, adopted in January 2023, sets out a collaborative governance framework between the EU and national authorities.
Concrete progress recommendations
The report presents horizontal and country-specific recommendations, providing a clear operational framework. These recommendations will serve as a basis for dialogue and collaboration between the Commission and Member States to achieve common objectives. To support this effort, large-scale multinational projects will be implemented, including the newly introduced European Digital Infrastructure Consortiums (EDICs).
Main findings: a deep dive
Digital infrastructure – secure connectivity
The report sets a 2030 target of universal gigabit coverage and performing 5G networks in populated areas. There is currently a significant gap in the availability of fibre networks and 5G coverage, especially in rural areas. Additional investment of at least EUR 200 billion is imperative to ensure full coverage of gigabits and 5G networks.
Semiconductor
With an ambitious objective of doubling the EU’s share of global semiconductor production, the European Chips Act aims to strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem and supply chains. Member States are urged to strengthen the design, manufacture and development of chip skills at home.
Digitalisation of businesses
The DDPP sets out objectives for the widespread uptake of cloud computing, big data and AI. In order to achieve these objectives, Member States need to prioritise investments and incentives to increase the digital intensity of businesses, in particular SMEs. In addition, they should advocate and support the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).
Digitalisation of public services
Efforts to achieve 100 % online accessibility to key public services and medical records, together with universal access to secure electronic identification, require significant investment. The availability and cross-border performance of public services need to be improved, with the European Digital Identity Wallet to complement these efforts by 2030.
Digital skills
While the EU aspires to increase basic digital skills and ICT specialists, current forecasts are insufficient. Member States must invest in quality education, skills development and promote gender inclusion in STEM fields.
Values and Principles for Online Society
The EU continues to lead in shaping a safe and human-centric digital transformation. Policy measures such as the Digital Services Act and the AI Act reflect the commitment to a safe and free online society through a new EU initiative on Internet 4.0 and virtual worlds.
A sustainable digital transition
The report recognises ongoing efforts to make the digital transition environmentally sustainable. Initiatives such as the right to repair and ecodesign criteria for mobile phones and tablets demonstrate the commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of digital technologies, together with the national recovery and resilience plans.
International partnerships
The EU recognises the importance of global cooperation and has made progress in establishing digital partnerships with key allies. Efforts to support Ukraine’s digital transformation illustrate the EU’s commitment to expanding its values globally.
Tracing the course forward
Member States are invited to present actions and policies in their national roadmaps. The Commission and Member States will engage in discussions to refine strategies and address areas where progress is not made.
Source: European Digital Skills & Jobs Platform
