Boosting the Digital Transformation: Empowering European Regions
09/10/2024
On October 9th, regional leaders and experts gathered to discuss the path towards Europe’s digital transition in a regional context. This event was organized in the context of the 22nd European Week of Regions and Cities by the Veneto, Brittany, Flanders, and Kujawsko-Pomorskie regions, to equip regional administrators with strategies and insights to navigate the complex digital landscape of the European Union.
The interactive conference explored strategies for fostering digital skills, leveraging emerging technologies, and addressing socio-economic disparities across European regions. The focus was on empowering citizens and raising awareness of the digital revolution already underway, particularly at a time when the EU faces significant competition from global powers such as the US and China.
Roberto Ciambetti, President of the Veneto Region, highlighted the urgency of closing the digital gap between Europe and these global leaders. He emphasized that 80% of EU digital services are dependent on external providers, leaving Europe vulnerable in terms of cloud computing and AI. Ciambetti urged regions to act swiftly and creatively to boost employment opportunities, particularly in areas with lower-skilled workers, by embracing digital tools and promoting innovation.
Ciambetti also gave examples from the Veneto Region, where AI applications are being integrated into healthcare systems and public services. His message was clear: regions, being more dynamic and adaptable than central governments, should lead the digital revolution.
Aude Ollivier-Cadoret, Director of the Brittany Region (EARLALL Network), shared insights into the region’s strategy for addressing digital challenges. She emphasized the importance of trust, strategy, and investment, particularly in cybersecurity, which has become critical in an era of increasing cyber-attacks.
Brittany has invested €1.66 billion in high-speed internet infrastructure, ensuring that by 2026, all residents will have access to high-speed connectivity. The region’s cybersecurity initiatives include the creation of the Bretagne Cyber Alliance and a cyber campus to support economic players and meet recruitment challenges in the cybersecurity sector. With 170 companies and 200 researchers specializing in cybersecurity in the region, Brittany is positioning itself as a leader in both digital inclusivity and cyber resilience.
Piotr Całbecki, Governor of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region in Poland, illustrated how regions can use data-driven decision-making to enhance local governance. His region has established a Data Center for SMEs, providing businesses with the digital tools necessary to manage data efficiently, and enabling them to take advantage of the region’s digital infrastructure.
Anette Amalie Åbodsvik Bang from the Nordland County Government in Norway provided a perspective on how digital collaboration can bridge regional and municipal boundaries. The Network of Digitalisation in Norway is a key initiative, enabling municipalities to share resources and tackle challenges together, particularly in addressing demographic changes and providing broadband access to rural areas.
The discussions at the event offered a roadmap for regional leaders to harness the opportunities of digital transformation while safeguarding citizens’ rights and ensuring inclusivity.
By sharing best practices and success stories, the regions demonstrated that they are not only adapting to the challenges of digitalization but also shaping the future of Europe’s digital landscape with innovation, inclusiveness, and citizen empowerment at the forefront.
