Microsoft has made a significant commitment to European digital resilience amid escalating geopolitical tensions and trade disputes. The company has announced plans to operate over 200 data centers across the EU by 2027, expanding its cloud and AI infrastructure in Europe.
In a recent blog post, Microsoft President Brad Smith outlined five key commitments to European customers, emphasizing “digital stability” and a pledge to “uphold Europe’s digital resilience.” The company is determined to maintain its European operations despite potential US government orders to suspend them, vowing to “promptly and vigorously contest” any such measures through legal avenues.
The commitments include:
- Continuing to expand cloud and AI infrastructure in Europe, with a 40% increase in data center capacity over the next two years across 16 European countries
- Introducing a legally binding European Digital Resilience Commitment in contracts with European national governments and the European Commission
- Ensuring the privacy of European data through local storage and processing within the EU and European Free Trade Association
- Enhancing cybersecurity with the appointment of a new Deputy CISO for Europe
- Supporting regional competition
Microsoft’s stance comes as the company faces ongoing scrutiny from antitrust regulators, including the European Commission. The tech giant has reaffirmed its commitment to Europe, citing the mutual economic benefits of trans-Atlantic ties and welcoming the recent agreement between President Trump and the EU to suspend further tariff escalations.
As part of its digital resilience commitment, Microsoft will store backup copies of its code in a secure Swiss repository, leveraging Switzerland’s robust data privacy and security laws. This move underscores the company’s dedication to respecting European laws and sovereignty demands while continuing to expand its presence in the region.
