The European Commission will allocate €1.3 billion to the development of key technologies that are critical for Europe’s technological sovereignty. The funding will be provided under the “Digital Europe” (DIGITAL) program for the years 2025–2027.
The program focuses on the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud technologies, cybersecurity, and digital skills. Key priorities include the development of generative AI for healthcare and social sectors, support for European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), and the creation of a digital model of the Earth as part of the Destination Earth initiative to address climate change and natural disaster risks.
Additional emphasis is placed on strengthening cybersecurity, including the establishment of the EU Cybersecurity Reserve to protect critical infrastructure such as hospitals and undersea cables. The program also includes measures to enhance digital skills, launch the EU digital wallet architecture, and modernize public services.
An important element of the program will be the “Strategic Technologies for Europe” (STEP) platform, which will help promising projects gain access to public and private funding.
Previously, the Swedish government proposed allowing police to use real-time AI-powered facial recognition technology to combat crime.
