Digital transformation has proven to be a profound game changer in the lives of citizens and businesses in the EU. By identifying the main priorities for EU digital policy to be developed in the next legislative cycle, the Council conclusions aim to address both the challenges and opportunities in the digital sphere.

New technologies have driven innovation, economic growth and sustainability. That being said, a successful digital transformation must be based on a safe, inclusive, sustainable and human-centred approach that upholds democracy and human rights. Digital rights are fundamental for everyone. We must ensure that no one is left behind, offering all Europeans the opportunity to develop essential digital skills and actively participate in the online world.

To improve the EU’s competitiveness on the global stage, a common European approach to innovative digital technologies that strike the right balance between innovation, regulatory burden and protection of the Union’s economic security should be promoted. To achieve these goals, ambitious targets must be set for the future in terms of digital skills, digital governance and secure, digital infrastructure across Europe.

In its conclusions, the Council stresses that effective, consistent and efficient implementation of the recently adopted laws with the minimum administrative burden for public and private actors is the main priority for the next mandate.

A common European approach to innovative digital technologies is of key importance for the competitiveness of the EU and for ensuring the protection of the Union’s economic security, while maintaining economic openness and dynamism.

Member States recognize the importance of ensuring a more secure, responsible and reliable online environment in accordance with the Declaration of Louvain-la-Neuve adopted during the informal meeting of telecommunications ministers on 12 April 2024.

Member States also stress that this digital transformation should go hand in hand with the green transition, accompanied by ambitious sustainability targets.

Strengthening the EU’s competitiveness in the digital transformation requires attracting and retaining a digitally skilled workforce, particularly women, and thus overcoming the digital divide.

The conclusions underline the importance of ensuring a secure and resilient digital infrastructure across the EU.

The Council conclusions also highlight the importance of the international dimension of EU digital policy, welcoming the strengthening of digital partnerships and digital trade agreements and stressing the need to develop a more proactive and coordinated Union approach to playing a key global role in digital transformation and governance.

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