The new Apply AI Strategy – between sovereignty and competitiveness

Launched by the European Commission upon a Draghi report recommendation, the EU Apply AI Strategy aims to deepen the uptake of AI in ten domains, ranging from mobility to health, energy, culture and public services. The Strategy goes as far as encouraging an ‘AI first’ policy and promoting a ‘buy European’ approach, particularly for the public sector, with a focus on open-source AI solutions. Importantly, it takes an ecosystem approach in the ten sectors, focusing on the technology stack, on standards and rules, as well as on the availability of skills.

The successful design and implementation of this strategy may change the game for European leadership and competitiveness in key sectors. Moreover, if achieved through European solutions and well supported by other initiatives, including the Cloud and AI Development Act, it may also promote technology sovereignty, giving the EuroStack renewed momentum. This session explores ways for the EU to seize these opportunities, striking a sustainable balance between competitiveness, sovereignty and sustainability.