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 eleven domains, ranging from mobility to health and from energy to culture and the public sector. The Strategy takes a much-welcomed ecosystem approach, focusing not only on the technology stack, but on complementary aspects such as data governance and the availability of skills. It envisages a new governance and support mechanism to link on-the-ground needs with existing initiatives, while providing new tailored support where needed. At the same time, some of its framing, such as pushing for ‘AI first’ policy and promoting a ‘buy European’ approach, is receiving less widespread support.

The careful design and successful implementation of this Strategy may change the game for European leadership, competitiveness and economic security. Moreover, it may also promote technology sovereignty, enabling the EU to reduce its dependencies on single sources of supply and, where possible, promoting European solutions.

This session explores ways for the EU to seize these opportunities, striking a balance between competitiveness, sovereignty and sustainability.