In the European Union (EU), digital transformation is conceived as the key to unlocking future growth in Europe. Indeed, the EU’s long-term budget, namely the European Multiannual Financial Framework, will help to bridge the EU’s digital investment gap for the period 2021 – 2027.
As a result, the European Commission has created a new “Digital Europe” programme, with an overall budget of €9.2 billion to shape and support the digital transformation of European societies and economies. The programme will seek to boost investment in:
- Supercomputing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Advanced digital skills
In regard to the first investment area, the Commission is aware of the need for high-performance computers, or supercomputers, as they make it possible to process large amounts of data. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence is viewed as one of the most promising technologies; a major solution to the social challenges of the coming years and the driver of economic growth. The importance of cybersecurity has grown because the new possibilities to connect and disseminate information over the internet have also increased the risks. Thus, cyber-attacks and fraud can potentially destabilize countries, requiring a large investment in this technology. However, the benefits of investing in all of the areas included in the programme can only be achieved if there are enough people who are prepared to implement those changes. Thus, it is also necessary to invest in the training of a large number of professionals.
I totally agree with the European Union’s ambitions to promote the European digital space.
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