Cloud3 min read

Embracing Sovereignty in the Cloud: Opportunities for Europe’s Digital Future

Guy Bartram
European Union flags waiving at Berlaymont building of the European Commission in Brussels, Belgium

The realm of technology is advancing rapidly, and at the core of this transformation is cloud computing, reshaping the way industries operate and innovate. The European Union and many of its member states have placed a pronounced emphasis on cloud sovereignty, with an increasing focus on ESG principles, control over potentially disruptive technologies, and corporate accountability. In essence, it's becoming increasingly critical for all stakeholders to stay informed on policy and regulatory developments in this space to ensure compliance and avoid adverse outcomes.

This pivotal concept of sovereignty extends beyond the technological sphere, touching on Europe's competitive and political edge, capacity for innovation, and security in an increasingly digitized world, ​​but there is still a significant gap to guarantee full jurisdiction control. The forthcoming ForumEurope’s 2nd European Sovereign Cloud Day, set to take place on September 10, 2024, in Brussels and online, stands as a clear indicator of this growing emphasis. Organized in partnership with Broadcom ForumEurope and Arrow, this event is poised to be a critical convergence point for Cloud Service Providers, legislators, regulators, and industry visionaries providing an accurate update on regulation, and a better understanding of the current gaps and concerns.

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Why is this event crucial for VMware Cloud Service Providers and their customers?

1. Understanding the Legislative Landscape: The European Union is positioning itself as a regulatory leader with initiatives such as the Data Act and the AI Act, where the majority of obligations fall on providers. Cloud Service Providers and their customers need to navigate these regulations effectively to thrive, moreover, understand the gaps and pitfalls with jurisdictional control of data and process. This conference will offer in-depth insights into the EU's regulatory framework, helping attendees understand how to navigate these regulations for business success.

2. Fostering Innovation and Resilience: Sovereign Cloud services are not just about keeping data within Europe's borders; they're about creating an ecosystem that encourages innovation and ensures resilience against cyber threats. By attending, providers and customers can learn how to contribute to and benefit from Europe's digital sovereignty.

3. Collaborating for Success: The event will highlight the importance of collaboration between industry and government in deploying next-generation cloud technologies. It's a unique opportunity for Cloud Service Providers to align with government initiatives and for potential customers to identify partners who are at the forefront of Sovereign Cloud solutions.

4. Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges: With the rise of Sovereign Cloud solutions comes a new set of cybersecurity considerations. The conference will tackle these head-on, providing insights into how to balance sovereignty with security in an interconnected world.

5. Networking and Partnerships: This gathering is the perfect venue for Cloud Service Providers to connect with potential customers and for businesses to find cloud partners that understand the nuances of Europe's digital landscape. The event's agenda is packed with opportunities to engage with thought leaders and decision-makers.

6. Real-World Insights: Through a series of keynote speeches and panels, attendees will gain a comprehensive view of the sovereign data ecosystem from various perspectives, including healthcare, defense, and emerging cloud services. These sessions will provide actionable insights and strategies for Cloud Service Providers and customers alike.

7. Looking Ahead: The event will also explore the future of cloud transformation strategies, including country-specific approaches and the role of emerging regional Sovereign Cloud Service Providers. This forward-looking perspective is essential for anyone involved in the cloud industry, from established players to new entrants.

The 2nd European Sovereign Cloud Day is more than just a conference—it's a strategic convergence of minds and ideas that will help shape Europe's cloud computing landscape. For Cloud Service Providers, it's an opportunity to understand further, align with Europe's digital ambitions and showcase their sovereign capabilities. For potential customers, it's a chance to find partners who can help them leverage the cloud for success in a sovereign data ecosystem. Mark your calendars for September 10, 2024, and join us in Brussels for an event that promises to chart the course for Europe's cloud sovereignty journey.