German State Takes Bold Step Towards Digital Sovereignty
The German state of Schleswig-Holstein has announced plans to ban Microsoft Teams and other Microsoft software from its government operations, affecting nearly all civil servants, police officers, and judges. This move is part of a broader effort to regain control over data storage and ensure digital sovereignty by transitioning to open-source alternatives.
Transition to Open-Source Software
The transition, which began in 2024, involves replacing Microsoft Word and Excel with LibreOffice, and switching from Outlook to Open-Xchange for emails and calendars. The state also plans to adopt a Linux-based operating system in the coming years to complete the shift away from Microsoft Windows. Dirk Schroedter, the state’s digitalization minister, emphasized that this move is crucial for maintaining digital sovereignty and reducing dependence on American tech firms.
Rationale Behind the Decision
Schroedter highlighted that recent geopolitical developments, particularly the war in Ukraine, have underscored the importance of reducing digital dependencies. The state prefers to use publicly owned German digital infrastructure rather than relying on American providers. This decision comes amid concerns about the influence of major American tech firms in Europe and scrutiny over Microsoft’s market dominance.
Impact and Future Plans
The initial phase of the transition will impact about half of Schleswig-Holstein’s 60,000 public servants, with nearly 30,000 teachers expected to follow in the coming years. The state intends to move its data storage to a cloud platform outside Microsoft’s control, further enhancing its digital sovereignty. Schroedter has received requests for advice from around the globe, indicating a growing interest in this approach.
As Europe continues to navigate its digital landscape, Schleswig-Holstein’s move sets a significant precedent for other regions considering similar transitions. The state’s commitment to open-source software and digital sovereignty reflects a broader trend towards reducing reliance on proprietary technology and enhancing data security.
