Between self-sufficiency and one-sided dependence, the European economic powerhouse is seeking a third way. Technology-friendly legislation, a strong innovation ecosystem and industrial companies that continue to deliver unique, cutting-edge products even in the age of AI and quantum computing, can restore the EU’s status as a heavyweight in the global competition for sovereignty.

However, the EU is not entering the race without some baggage. As a mature industrial hub with a long regulatory tradition and an established mindset, the question arises as to how institutions, structures, and ways of thinking must be adapted in order to manage the risks of new technologies and capitalize on the opportunities they present.

How can the EU leverage its strengths to remain indispensable in global value chains and protect itself against geopolitical blackmail?

Henna Virkkunen, Exekutiv-Vizepräsidentin der Europäischen Kommission für technische Souveränität, Sicherheit und Demokratie