ZEI Monitor: EU Progress 2019-2024

Europe fit for the digital age

• European Data Strategy: On the 19th of February 2020, the European Commission presented a European Data Strategy which proposes to put in place an enabling legislative framework for the governance of common European data spaces in fourth quarter of 2020. Furthermore in 2021 a possible European Data Act could foster business-to-government data sharing for the public interest and support business-to-business data sharing, in particular addressing issues related to usage rights for co-generated data (such as IoT data in industrial settings), typically laid down in private contracts.

• Digital Strategy: On the 19th of February 2020, the European Commission put forward a Communication on Shaping Europe's digital future, announcing the following key actions:

1. White Paper on Artificial Intelligence setting out options for a legislative framework for trustworthy AI (adopted together with this Communication), with a follow-up on safety, liability, fundamental rights and data (Q4 2020).

2. Building and deploying cutting-edge joint digital capacities in the areas of AI, cyber, super-and quantum computing, quantum communication and blockchain. European Strategies on Quantum and blockchain (Q2 2020) as well as a revised EuroHPC Regulation on supercomputing.

3. Accelerating investments in Europe’s Gigabit connectivity, through a revision of the Broadband Cost Reduction Directive, an updated Action Plan on 5G and 6G, a new Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (2021).5G corridors for connected and automated mobility, including railway corridors, will be rolled out (2021-2030) (2021-2023).

4. A European cybersecurity strategy, including the establishment of a joint Cybersecurity Unit, a Review of the Security of Network and Information Systems (NIS) Directive and giving a push to the single market for cybersecurity.

5. A Digital Education Action Plan to boost digital literacy and competences at all levels of education (Q22020).

6. A reinforced Skills Agenda to strengthen digital skills throughout society and a reinforced Youth Guarantee to put a strong focus on digital skills in early career transitions (Q2 2020).

A European approach to Artificial Intelligence

• White Paper on Artificial Intelligence: On the 19th of February 2020, the European Commission published its White Paper on "Artificial Intelligence- A European approach to excellence and trust" and the accompanying Report on the safety and liability framework. The stated goal of the Commission is to launch a broad consultation of member states, civil society, industry and academics on concrete proposals for a European approach to AI. On the one hand, these include policy means to boost investments in research and innovation, enhance the development of skills and support the uptake of AIby SMEs, and on the other hand proposals for key elements of a future regulatory framework.

Digital services

Increasing cybersecurity

Digital for consumers

A new industrial strategy for Europe

Aviation services package

Towards a European Research Area

Digital finance