Consultation: EU Commission is working on a new open source strategy

The European Commission is developing a new open-source strategy to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce dependencies on proprietary software, particularly from the United States. This initiative acknowledges the crucial role of open-source software (OSS) in achieving digital autonomy for Europe. The strategy aims to foster a more robust open-source ecosystem, supporting its growth and commercial viability. The Commission launched a public consultation in early January, with a deadline of February 3rd, to gather input for the new strategy. The forthcoming strategy, expected to be released by April, emphasizes strengthening the open-source ecosystem strategically, not just focusing on research. Key goals include commercializing open-source projects, improving supply chain security, and encouraging the public sector's adoption of OSS. This move will impact software developers, businesses, and public institutions across Europe, fostering a digital environment less reliant on external technology providers. It aligns with the EU's broader efforts to promote a "Buy European" approach, as seen with Nextcloud GmbH. The strategy is seen as a way to ensure Europe's independence, particularly regarding critical infrastructure. The Commission's focus on open source underscores the importance of digital sovereignty in today's geopolitical context. The consultation, which has already received hundreds of contributions, will shape the final strategy, setting the stage for increased OSS adoption and development across the EU.