An ethical digital future begins today
The letter from seven Dutch technology companies to the House of Representatives, shared via Post on Linkedin, It's not just a lobby letter. It's a manifesto. Sendent, The Good Cloud, Soverin, ProcoliX, Tuxis , Intermax, Dutch Cloud Community and Conduction are deeply concerned about the direction the Netherlands and Europe are taking when it comes to digital infrastructure, data storage and public values. Their message is crystal clear: If we don't reassess our digital sovereignty and ethics now, we will lose them forever.
“The time to act is not soon – it is now.
Efficiency as a crowbar
The tension between workability and guarantee is palpable. Of course, we want systems to run smoothly, but when the pursuit of workflow efficiency becomes a licence for structural dependence on non-European big tech platforms, something fundamentally goes wrong. These companies show that things can be done differently: Safe, reliable and sovereign.
We must now opt for long-term rather than short-term profit.
To govern is to do
The current Dutch government has not built up a reputation for vigorous action in digital files. But now she gets the chance to tilt that image. This letter offers concrete indications and realistic alternatives. It is an invitation to do what is necessary: aligning legislation and procurement with European values and independence.
Waiting any longer is not only unwise, it is irresponsible.
Loss of individuality calls for recovery
Europe has long found strength in its diversity, its rule of law and its moral leadership. But in the area of digital autonomy, she has given up that unique position. Instead of pursuing its own course, Europe has too often followed the standards and dependencies of others. The choices that once determined her individuality have been replaced by technocratic laziness. It is time to reclaim that character, to think and act independently, not only technologically but also culturally.
Whoever gives up his individuality in order to belong, will ultimately not be recognized by anyone.
Europe, become a guide again
Where Europe once led the way in protecting digital rights, it now seems to respond mainly to external impulses. It is time for Europe to regain its moral compass and set the course again. By taking public values as a guiding principle in digital development, Europe can once again set an example on the world stage.
That compass must be used now.
Data-Pro joins this call
At Data-Pro, we believe that technology should be at the service of people and society. The letter of Sendent, The Good Cloud, Soverin, ProcoliX, Tuxis , Intermax, Dutch Cloud Community and Conduction deserves broad support. We wholeheartedly agree. The time of non-committal is over. Now is the time to set course.
Not tomorrow. Not next year. Today.
English (UK)