Goodbye! French authorities throw out Teams, Zoom, Webex

France is taking a significant step towards enhancing its digital sovereignty by mandating the removal of US-based video conferencing services like Zoom and Microsoft Teams from its government agencies by 2027. This strategic move underscores a broader European push to reduce reliance on foreign technology giants and bolster domestic digital capabilities, prioritizing data protection and cost-efficiency. The initiative aims to safeguard sensitive government data from potential foreign access and foster the growth of indigenous digital solutions. The core of this policy shift involves the adoption of "Visio," an in-house developed platform, as the primary communication tool for French public administration. This open-source project is designed not only to comply with stringent data privacy regulations but also to offer a more cost-effective alternative to the commercial subscriptions previously paid to US providers. The emphasis on an open-source framework suggests a commitment to transparency, customizability, and long-term data security for governmental operations. This directive directly impacts French public sector employees and software providers by necessitating a transition away from familiar, widely adopted US platforms. The broader implications extend to the European tech landscape, potentially catalyzing further development and adoption of local alternatives in cloud-based services and digital infrastructure. Such policies signal a clear intention from European governments to cultivate their own digital ecosystems, fostering innovation and ensuring greater control over critical technologies.