Europe Urges ‘Open Source by Default’ to Bolster Digital Sovereignty, Reduce US Software Dependence
A growing concern over international software dependencies and shifting geopolitical alliances is driving a push within the European Union to prioritize digital sovereignty through the widespread adoption of open source software. The Open Source Business Alliance (OSBA) has submitted a detailed statement to the Commission, advocating for a strategic shift towards open source, particularly in critical sectors like infrastructure and defense.
The OSBA’s recent publication highlights a perceived vulnerability stemming from reliance on proprietary software, much of it originating in the United States. “The transatlantic partnership is no longer based on the same political value foundation as before,” a senior official stated, “and the threat from international software dependencies is growing.” This dependence, the OSBA argues, creates a potential point of manipulation, blockage, or shutdown of essential systems under external pressure.
The Security Imperative of Open Source
The core argument centers on security. A significant portion of software embedded in EU military equipment and utilized within public administration currently relies on closed-source solutions from US-based companies. This creates a risk that, according to the OSBA, necessitates a proactive response. Open source software, with its publicly accessible code, offers a potential safeguard against such vulnerabilities.
“The use of open source software is a security policy must and a protective mechanism for democracies under pressure,” the OSBA asserts, emphasizing its importance for critical infrastructure, defense, and public institutions. The transparency inherent in open source allows for independent verification and mitigation of potential security flaws, a benefit not readily available with proprietary systems.
“Open Source by Default” in Public Procurement
To accelerate this transition, the OSBA is calling on the EU Commission to introduce a clear “Open Source by Default” regulation within the ongoing Public Procurement Revision. This would prioritize open source-based solutions over proprietary alternatives in all public sector procurement processes.
The logic is straightforward: increased demand will stimulate the European IT industry to develop and offer more high-quality open source solutions. “Clear political framework conditions for preferential procurement of open source software send a clear signal to the European IT industry,” the OSBA stated. Numerous European providers are already positioned to deliver digitally sovereign software, and a policy shift would further bolster their growth.
Public Funds, Public Code: Maximizing Investment
The OSBA also champions the principle of “Public Money, Public Code.” This advocates for any software adaptations or new developments funded by public money to be released under an open source license and made publicly accessible. This approach would allow other authorities to leverage existing investments, fostering collaboration and reducing redundant development costs.
This model ensures that the benefits of publicly funded software development are broadly shared, rather than remaining locked within specific agencies or departments. It also promotes innovation by allowing for community-driven improvements and adaptations.
The State as Anchor Customer and Innovation Driver
Sustained investment in the maintenance and further development of open source software is also crucial. The OSBA argues that the state must act as an “anchor customer,” providing consistent funding to ensure the long-term security and reliability of the software it utilizes.
This investment, however, isn’t solely for the benefit of the public sector. The open nature of the software allows the private sector, academia, and civil society to benefit from these advancements, replacing existing dependencies and fostering broader innovation. Open source software, therefore, is positioned as an “innovation booster for a modern state and a strong economy.”
Ultimately, the OSBA believes that a concerted effort to embrace open source software offers a pathway to genuine digital sovereignty for Europe, reducing reliance on external providers and strengthening its technological independence. If the European Commission adopts these recommendations, a more secure and innovative digital future for the continent is within reach.
The full statement from OSBA can be found here as a PDF.
Quelle: Open Source Business Alliance
